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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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