Aricept ODT

Generic name: donepezil (oral) [ doe-NEP-e-zil ]
Other brand names of donepezil (oral) include: Aricept, Aricept ODT
Drug class: Cholinesterase inhibitors

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Oct 26, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Aricept ODT?

Aricept ODT is used in adults to treat dementia related to Alzheimer's disease. This medicine can help improve mental function, but it does not work the same in all people.

Aricept ODT is not a cure for Alzheimer's disease. This condition will worsen over time, even in people who take this medicine.

Aricept ODT may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Aricept ODT side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficult breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Aricept ODT may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

• slow heartbeats;

• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;

• new or worsening stomach pain, heartburn, nausea, or vomiting;

• a seizure;

• painful or difficult urination;

• new or worsening breathing problems; or

• stomach bleeding--bloody or tarry stools, coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds.

You may be more likely to have serious stomach problems while taking medicine that contains an NSAID.

Common side effects of Aricept ODT may include:

• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;

• loss of appetite;

• muscle cramps;

• sleep problems (insomnia); or

• feeling tired.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Related/similar drugs

Warnings

Use only as directed. Tell your doctor if you use other medicines or have other medical conditions or allergies.

Before taking this medicine

You should not take Aricept ODT if you are allergic to Aricept ODT or certain other drugs. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to any medicines.

Tell your doctor if you have or have ever had:

• heart problems including fast, slow or uneven heart rate;

• a stomach ulcer or bleeding;

• urination problems;

• a planned surgery or procedure;

• asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), sleep apnea, or other breathing disorder;

• seizure or epilepsy;

• trouble swallowing tablets; or

• liver or kidney disease.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How should I take Aricept ODT?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Aricept ODT is taken once per day. You may take this medicine with or without food.

Do not change your dose or stop taking Aricept ODT without your doctor's advice.

Swallow the 23-mg tablet whole and do not crush, chew, or break it.

Allow the orally disintegrating tablet to dissolve in your mouth without chewing. After it dissolves completely, drink a full glass of water.

If you need surgery or any medical or dental procedure, tell the surgeon or dentist ahead of time that you are taking Aricept ODT.

Store Aricept ODT oral at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not take two doses at one time. Call your doctor for instructions if you miss your dose for more than 7 days in a row.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking Aricept ODT?

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

What other drugs will affect Aricept ODT?

Ask your doctor before taking a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), celecoxib (Celebrex), diclofenac, indomethacin, meloxicam, and others. Using an NSAID with Aricept ODT may increase your risk of stomach ulcer.

Sometimes it is not safe to use certain medicines at the same time. Some drugs can affect your blood levels of other drugs you use, which may increase side effects or make the medicines less effective.

Other drugs may affect Aricept ODT, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.

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Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

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

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