Donepezil: Uses, Side Effects, and Drug Interactions
Brand names: DONEPEZIL HYDROCHLORIDE
# Donepezil: What You Need to Know Donepezil is a medicine used to treat memory problems caused by Alzheimer's disease. It works by helping certain chemicals in the brain stay active longer, which can improve memory, thinking, and daily functioning in people with early to moderate Alzheimer's disease. The medicine comes in tablet form and is usually taken by mouth once a day. While donepezil cannot cure Alzheimer's disease, it may help slow down some of the memory loss and confusion that happens with the condition. Before taking donepezil, it's important to tell your doctor about any other medicines you take, especially drugs that work against certain brain chemicals. Donepezil can affect how some other medications work in your body. Some common side effects may include nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, trouble sleeping, and muscle cramps. It's important to take this medicine exactly as your doctor prescribes and report any unusual symptoms or side effects. Never stop taking donepezil without talking to your doctor first, as your symptoms may get worse if you stop suddenly.
Taking Donepezil with other medications?
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Check Now ↓Most Reported Side Effects (FAERS)
- FALL3,003 reports
- DEATH2,069 reports
- CONFUSIONAL STATE1,933 reports
- DIZZINESS1,786 reports
- DIARRHOEA1,773 reports
- FATIGUE1,718 reports
- NAUSEA1,630 reports
- DRUG INEFFECTIVE1,570 reports
- HALLUCINATION1,514 reports
- ASTHENIA1,488 reports
Source: FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS). Voluntary reports do not establish causation.
Recent Recalls (2)
- Class II
CARDINAL HEALTHCARE · January 26, 2022
Donepezil HCl Tablets, 5 mg, 90 Tablets, Rx only, Distributed by: Solco Healthcare U.S. LLC, Hurracao, Puerto Rico 00791. NDC: 43547-275-09CGMP Deviations: Products were exposed to temperatures outside of the products labeled storage conditions.
- Class II
CARDINAL HEALTHCARE · January 26, 2022
Donepezil HCl Tablets, 10 mg, 90 Tablets, Rx only, Distributed by: Solco Healthcare U.S. LLC, Hurracao, Puerto Rico 00791. NDC: 43547-276-09CGMP Deviations: Products were exposed to temperatures outside of the products labeled storage conditions.
Source: FDA (openFDA Drug Enforcement). Voluntary and mandated recalls affecting this drug.
Check interactions with Donepezil:
SafeCheck provides drug interaction information from FDA-approved product labeling (openFDA). This is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making medication decisions.