About donepezil
Acetylcholinesterase inhibitor
Used for
- Treats symptoms of mild, moderate, or severe Alzheimer’s disease.
Usual adult dose
Usually 5 mg once daily; may increase to 10 mg after 4–6 weeks. Higher doses may be used for severe disease.
Common side effects
- Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting
- Insomnia or vivid dreams
- Muscle cramps
- Loss of appetite or weight loss
Important warnings
- May slow heart rate or cause fainting.
- Can increase stomach acid and risk of ulcers or bleeding.
- May worsen asthma or cause urinary obstruction.
- Use caution before anesthesia; it may affect muscle relaxants.
Pregnancy
Human pregnancy information is limited; use only when clearly needed.
Breastfeeding
It is unknown whether donepezil passes into human milk; breastfeeding data are limited.
Interactions
- Anticholinergic medicines may reduce its effects.
- NSAIDs, including ibuprofen, may increase stomach bleeding risk.
- Some antibiotics and antifungals can increase donepezil levels.
- Donepezil may interact with heart-rate-lowering medicines and anesthetic muscle relaxants.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.