Aricept

Alzheimer's and dementia do not have cures at this time. One drug that is promising in the effectiveness of its treatment of slowing the progression of Alzheimer's and dementia is Aricept. Aricept is an oral medication that comes in several different strengths. Aricept is available as a dissolvable tablet or in pill form. Doctors prescribe Aricept to patients in an effort to improve their quality of life after the Alzheimer's diagnosis.

Most physicians believe that Alzheimer's and many forms of dementia are rooted in the in ability of the brain to make proper connections because of a plaque build up in the brain that interrupts brain function.

Aricept improves the cognition in those suffering from Alzheimer's and slows the loss of overall function, which can improve the ability to do everyday tasks. Aricept can also improve mild behavior issues in people who suffer with Alzheimer's and some forms of dementia.

Aricept Warnings and Precautions

As with any medication it is important for patients to inform their doctor of any medication allergies they have prior to starting their prescription of Aricept. It is also important for patients to give their doctors a complete medical history.

If a patient has a history of heart disease, breathing problems such as asthma, seizures, stomach issues such as ulcers and or trouble urinating from enlarged prostate or other bladder issues.

Do not take Aricept and drink alcohol in excess. It is also important not to operate heavy machinery or drive when beginning an Aricept prescription until a patient knows how they will react to the medication.

Pregnant women should only take Aricept if absolutely necessary. Doctors do not know if Aricept passes into breast milk, so most doctors do not recommend taking Aricept if a patient is breast-feeding.

Aricept Uses

Aricept is a medication doctors prescribe to treat mild to moderate confusion due to various forms of dementia or Alzheimer's disease. While Aricept is not a cure for Alzheimer's and dementia the medication seems to improve memory, awareness and the basic ability to function in daily activities. Aricept works by restoring the natural functionality of the brain. Aricept works to rebuild neurotransmitters in the brain.

Aricept Side Effects

Aricept has a number of side effects, but if a doctor prescribes Aricept it is because the doctor feels the benefits of Aricept in treating the Alzheimer's and dementia in their patient outweighs the negative impact of any side effects the patient may experience.

Common side effects of Aricept include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, drowsiness and muscle cramps. Most the common side effects will subside within approximately three weeks after beginning the medication. If the side effects continue the patient should notify the prescribing physician.

Notify the prescribing physician immediately if a patient develops any of the following side effects mood changes, vision problems, fainting, irregular or slow heartbeat, frequent urination or trouble urinating, weight loss, black stool, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, severe stomach pain or seizures.

Aricept Interactions

Patients need to inform their doctors of any and all medications they are taking including over the counter medications such as high doses of aspirin for the treatment of arthritis. Anticholinergic medications such as benztropine, cholinergic drugs, cholinesterase inhibitors and any drugs that affect the liver enzymes are all medications that can limit the effectiveness of Aricept or can cause further issues for the patient such as stomach bleeding.

Aricept Overdose

Symptoms of Aricept overdose include nausea, vomiting, excessive sweating, slow heartbeat, shallow or slow breathing and seizures. If there is concern about a possible Aricept overdose then seek medical attention immediately or contact the local poison control center to find out what the next steps are.