Donepezil Dosage

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Oct 26, 2023.

Usual Adult Dose for Alzheimer's Disease

Initial dose: 5 mg orally once a day, in the evening prior to retiring

Mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease:

• Maintenance dose: 10 mg orally once a day, after the patient has been on an initial dose of 5 mg once a day for 4 to 6 weeks

Moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease:

• Maintenance dose: 23 mg orally once a day, after the patient has been on a dose of 10 mg once a day for at least 3 months

Comments: A higher dose of 10 mg may or may not provide a statistically significantly greater clinical benefit than a 5 mg dose. Prescriber and patient's preference should be considered.

Uses: For mild, moderate, and severe Alzheimer's type dementia

Renal Dose Adjustments

Data not available

Liver Dose Adjustments

Data not available

Dose Adjustments

In clinical studies, the increase to a 10 mg dose with a one week titration was associated with a higher incidence of cholinergic adverse events compared to a 5 mg dose. The type and frequency of these adverse events were similar for both the 5 mg and 10 mg dose when using a 6 week titration.
Recommended titration rate:

• A dose of 10 mg once a day can be administered after patients have been on a daily dose of 5 mg for at least 4 to 6 weeks.
• A dose of 23 mg once a day can be administered after patients have been on a dose of 10 mg once daily for at least 3 months.

Precautions

Safety and efficacy have not been established in patients younger than 18 years.

Consult WARNINGS section for additional precautions.

Dialysis

Data not available

Other Comments

Administration advice:

• This drug should be taken in the evening, just prior to retiring.
• This drug can be taken with or without food.
• The 23 mg tablet should not be split, crushed or chewed because this action may increase its rate of absorption.
• Allow the orally disintegrated tablet (ODT) to dissolve on the tongue and follow with water.

Frequently asked questions

• When is the best time to take Aricept (donepezil)?
• How does Aricept work?

See also:

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer