Donepezil 23mg

Donepezil 23mg — Uses and Benefits

This medicine is used to treat memory and thinking problems associated with Alzheimer's disease, particularly in the moderate to severe stage.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Managing symptoms of moderate to severe Alzheimer's-type dementia
• Helping improve memory, awareness, and ability to carry out daily activities in affected patients

HOW IT WORKS

• It blocks the breakdown of a chemical messenger called acetylcholine in the brain
• Higher levels of this chemical help improve communication between nerve cells involved in memory and learning

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It does not cure Alzheimer's disease or stop the disease from progressing
• It is not used for mild Alzheimer's disease unless specifically advised by your doctor
• It is not a treatment for other types of memory loss unless prescribed for that purpose
• It is not meant for general anxiety, depression, or age-related forgetfulness

How to Use Donepezil 23mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily at bedtime
• Swallow the tablet with water; do not crush or chew unless your doctor has advised otherwise
• It can be taken with or without food
• Continue taking it regularly even if you do not notice immediate improvement, as effects build up over time
• Do not stop taking it suddenly without consulting your doctor

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember on the same day
• If you missed it for several days, contact your doctor before restarting, as the dose may need to be adjusted
• Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Donepezil 23mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting
• Muscle cramps
• Fatigue
• Insomnia or unusual dreams

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Drowsiness
• Weight loss
• Frequent urination

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Fainting or slow heartbeat
• Signs of stomach bleeding such as black stools or vomiting blood
• Seizures
• Severe vomiting or dehydration
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Yellowing of skin or eyes (signs of liver problems)

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Donepezil 23mg — Safety Information and Precautions

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to donepezil or any other ingredient in the tablet
• Have been advised against it by your doctor due to a specific medical condition

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have a history of heart rhythm problems or slow heartbeat
• Have a history of stomach ulcers or are at risk of stomach bleeding
• Have asthma or chronic lung disease
• Have a history of seizures
• Have liver or kidney problems
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Are going to undergo surgery, as this medicine can interact with anesthesia

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other medicines affecting heart rhythm
• NSAIDs or painkillers that increase risk of stomach bleeding
• Muscle relaxants used during anesthesia
• Other medicines for dementia or memory-related conditions
• Certain antifungal or antibiotic medicines that affect how this drug is broken down in the body

This medicine is available only with a doctor's prescription in India and should not be used without medical supervision.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I take this medicine if I have mild Alzheimer's disease?

This strength is usually meant for moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease; your doctor will decide the right strength for you.

How long does it take to show improvement?

It may take several weeks to notice any change in symptoms, and it does not cure the underlying disease.

Can I stop this medicine once symptoms improve?

• No, it should not be stopped without your doctor's advice as symptoms may worsen.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.