Donep 5 Tablet
Manufacturer
Alkem Laboratories Ltd
Salt Composition
Donepezil (5mg)
Key Information
Short Description
Donep 5 Tablet is used to treat mild to moderate dementia in Alzheimer’s disease, a progressive illness that gradually affects memory and thinking.
Dosage Form
Tablet
Introduction
Your doctor will explain how to take Donep 5 Tablet. You may take it with food, preferably at night before going to bed. Follow the instructions carefully to get the most benefit. The dose may change from time to time to suit your individual needs. It can take up to a few weeks for symptoms to improve so keep taking your medicine regularly. You should not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor.
Directions for Use
Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Swallow it as a whole. Do not chew, crush or break it. Donep 5 Tablet may be taken with or without food, but it is better to take it at a fixed time.
How it works
Memory loss in Alzheimer's disease occurs due to disturbances of signal transmission in the brain. Donep 5 Tablet is a cholinesterase inhibitor. It works by increasing the levels of a chemical messenger (acetylcholine) involved in transmission of nerve signals. This improves memory and thinking.
Quick Tips
You have been prescribed Donep 5 Tablet to slow down the progression of Alzheimer's disease. It does not cure Alzheimer's disease but may help improve brain function and ability to do daily activities. Take it with or without food, preferably at night before going to bed. Monitor your body weight regularly as both Donep 5 Tablet and Alzheimer's disease can cause weight loss. Do not drive or do anything that requires mental focus until you know how Donep 5 Tablet affects you.
Related Medicines
Aricep 5 Tablet
Alzil 5 Tablet
Ronil 5mg Tablet
Donex 5mg Tablet
Donemax 5mg Tablet
Donz 5mg Tablet
Cognidep 5mg Tablet
Gigapezil 5mg Tablet
Demezil 5mg Tablet
Amazil 5mg Tablet
Frequently asked questions
Why is Donepezil recommended to be taken at night?
Donepezil is typically taken before bedtime to help minimize gastrointestinal side effects or nausea, which some patients may experience during the first few weeks of treatment.
Do gastrointestinal side effects due to Donepezil persist for a long time?
Gastrointestinal side effects may appear during the first few weeks of treatment with Donepezil. These side effects are usually mild and can be reduced by taking Donepezil at bedtime and with food. They typically disappear within a few weeks as the body adjusts to the medication.
How long does it take for Donepezil to start working?
Within the first month of treatment, you may experience improvement in cognitive function. However, it may take around 12 weeks to see the full benefits of Donepezil.
When should Donepezil be stopped?
Do not stop taking Donepezil without consulting your doctor. This medication helps control symptoms but does not cure Alzheimer's disease. It may take several weeks to show benefits, so do not become discouraged if you don't see an improvement right away. If your condition worsens and the medication no longer seems helpful, consult a doctor before stopping it.
For how long does Donepezil stay in your system?
Donepezil is eliminated from the body slowly. It takes about two weeks or more for Donepezil to be completely removed from the system.
Does Donepezil cause depression?
No, Donepezil does not cause depression. If you're experiencing symptoms, it could be due to existing Alzheimer's disease rather than the medication itself.
What if I take more than the prescribed dose of Donepezil?
Taking more than the recommended dose of Donepezil may lead to vomiting, increased sweating or saliva production, slow heartbeat, dizziness, difficulty breathing, seizures or fits, weakness, low blood pressure, convulsions, and incontinence. Seek immediate medical attention from a doctor or nearby emergency service.
I've been taking indomethacin for arthritis. Can I take Donepezil?
Donepezil does not interact with indomethacin. However, long-term use of indomethacin increases the risk of stomach bleeding. If you experience symptoms of stomach bleeding, consult your doctor immediately.
Does Donepezil cause hallucinations?
Hallucinations are a common side effect of Donepezil, although not everyone experiences them. Other psychiatric side effects include agitation, aggressive behavior, nightmares, and abnormal dreams.
Who should not take Donepezil?
Donepezil is not suitable for patients who have hypersensitivity to Donepezil hydrochloride, piperidine derivatives, or other active ingredients in the medication. It should also be used with caution during pregnancy unless clearly necessary.
Can it cause insomnia?
Yes, insomnia (sleeplessness) is a common side effect of Donepezil. Dizziness and fainting can also occur as side effects, although they are not experienced by everyone.
