Donepezil

Dosage Forms Available

• Donepezil can be taken orally (tablet, orally disintegrating tablets (ODTs), and an oral solution)

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Donepezil is typically prescribed to adults.

Contraindications

• Donepezil should not be used by individuals who have had allergic reactions to it or its ingredients in the past. It is also contraindicated for those with certain medical histories, including stomach or intestinal ulcers, seizures, bladder obstruction, asthma or lung diseases, and heart rhythm problems.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Donepezil may interact with antifungals (e.g., ketoconazole), antipsychotics (e.g., risperidone, olanzapine), anticholinergic medicines (such as oxybutynin and tolterodine), and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (like ibuprofen and naproxen).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Donepezil can potentially result in severe nausea, vomiting, drooling, sweating, slow heart rate, low blood pressure, breathing difficulties and seizures. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

• If a dose of Donepezil is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose, the missed one should be skipped. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• Taking Donepezil alongside food can help to reduce gastrointestinal side effects.

• For those experiencing nausea, eating small, frequent meals can be beneficial.

• To avoid dehydration from vomiting or diarrhoea, it's important to drink plenty of fluids.

• Standing up slowly can help reduce feelings of dizziness.

• If insomnia is a problem, short naps during the day and avoiding caffeine late in the day may help.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Donepezil may cause dizziness and drowsiness, which can affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. Avoid these activities if you experience these side effects after taking Donepezil.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• It is advised that women who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant or breastfeeding should consult their doctor before using Donepezil.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Careful consideration should be taken when prescribing Donepezil to patients with heart disease, lung diseases such as asthma or COPD, urinary retention, gastrointestinal bleeding or seizure disorders, as it may exacerbate these conditions.

• It has been observed that Donepezil may cause fainting and falls, particularly in elderly patients.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Cognitive activities such as reading, puzzles, games and social interaction can also support cognitive health.