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How does Aricept work?

Medically reviewed by Carmen Pope, BPharm. Last updated on May 27, 2024.

Official Answer by Drugs.com

Aricept (donepezil) helps improve brain function by preventing the breakdown of a chemical called acetylcholine. This chemical is crucial for memory, thinking, and reasoning. People with dementia often have lower levels of acetylcholine.

Aricept belongs to a class of drugs called cholinesterase inhibitors, which work by increasing acetylcholine levels to support better brain function. However, it does not change the progression of dementia itself.

References
  • Aricept (donepezil) Package Insert. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2012/020690s035,021720s008,022568s005lbl.pdf

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What drugs can help improve or slow down memory loss?

Drugs used to improve or slow down memory include prescription medications (e.g., cholinesterase inhibitors like donepezil) and over-the-counter products like ginseng and nootropics.

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Can Aricept be stopped abruptly?

No, you should not stop taking Aricept (donepezil) suddenly without consulting your healthcare provider. Abruptly discontinuing Aricept may cause a worsening of Alzheimer’s disease symptoms. Continue reading

What are 7 key Aricept side effects to watch out for?

Common side effects of Aricept include nausea, diarrhea, trouble sleeping, muscle cramps, and low appetite. For most people, these side effects last a few weeks and get better with continued use of Aricept. Continue reading

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