How to use
Generic Aricept (Donepezil) should be taken orally, once a day, with or without food. This medication is usually taken before bedtime, but you may switch to a morning dose if you suffer from insomnia.

Take Generic Aricept (Donepezil) regularly to enjoy its maximum benefits. Do not increase or decrease your dosage without talking to your doctor first. It may take a few weeks before this medication fully takes effect.

Overdose

Possible symptoms of a Generic Aricept (Donepezil) overdose include:

• Severe or persistent nausea or vomiting
• Excessive sweating
• Very slow heartbeat
• Slow or shallow breathing
• Seizures

If you suspect you have taken too much Generic Aricept (Donepezil), contact your local posion control center or the emergency medical services immediately.

Missed dose
If you miss a dose of Generic Aricept (Donepezil), take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not try to make up for a missed dose by doubling up on this medication.

Notes
Generic Aricept (Donepezil) is not a cure for Alzheimer’s disease, it merely helps improve the symptoms and slows down the progress of the condition.

Generic Aricept (Donepezil) may impair your thinking or reactions. Avoid driving or any other activities that require alertness until you are sure you can perform these activities safely.

Do not share this medication with others, as they may have a problem that is not effectively treated by Generic Aricept (Donepezil).

Storage
Store Generic Aricept (Donepezil) at room temperature, between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C), away from heat and moisture. KEEP THIS AND ALL OTHER MEDICATION OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.

Important note
The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed that the taking of this medication is safe, appropriate or effective for you.

Precautions
Before taking Generic Aricept (Donepezil), inform your doctor of your medical history, especially of:

• Any allergies
• Breathing problems (e.g. asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
• Heart diseases (heart conduction disorders)
• Seizures
• Stomach or intestinal diseases (e.g. ulcers, bleeding)
• Trouble urinating (e.g. enlarged prostate)

Generic Aricept (Donepezil) has been classed as Pregnancy Category C by the FDA, which means it can be potentially harmful to an unborn baby. It is not intended for use by women of childbearing age, but if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant during treatment with this medication, you should contact your doctor immediately.

It is not known whether Generic Aricept (Donepezil) passes into breast milk. Talk to your doctor before taking this medication if you are currently breastfeeding a baby.

Drug Interactions
Before using Generic Aricept (Donepezil), inform your doctor of all other medication you are currently using, including:

• Anticholinergic medications (e.g. Benztropine, Diphenhydramine)
• Aspirin (high doses used for arthritis)
• Cholinergic medication (e.g. Bethanechol)
• Cholinesterase inhibitors (e.g. Neostigmine)
• Long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs), such as Ibuprofen and Naproxen)
• Medication affecting the liver enzymes (such as Carbamazepine, Dexamethasone, Phenobarbital, Phenytoin, Rifampin)

Some medication, which contains pain relievers or fever reducers, may increase the risk of stomach or intestinal bleeding when used in combination with Generic Aricept (Donepezil). Check the labels of all your prescription and non-prescription medication thoroughly. Low-dose aspirin prescribed for specific medical reasons, such as stroke prevention or heart attacks, should be continued.

This is only a partial list and other medication may interact with Generic Aricept (Donepezil). Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and medicines prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.

The following common side effects are possible as your body adjusts to Generic Aricept (Donepezil):

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Tiredness
• Drowsiness
• Trouble sleeping
• Muscle cramps

These effects usually last 1-3 weeks and then subside. Contact your doctor immediately if any of these side effects persist or worsen.

Inform your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following unlikely but serious side effects:

• Mental or mood changes (e.g. depression)
• Slow or irregular heartbeat
• Fainting
• Vision problems
• More frequent urination or trouble urinating
• Weight loss

Also tell your doctor straightaway if you notice any of the following rare but very serious side effects:

• Black stools
• Vomit that looks like coffee grounds
• Severe stomach or abdominal pain
• Seizures

In very rare cases, you may experience a severe allergic reaction to Generic Aricept (Donepezil). Seek emergency medical attention if you experience any of the following symptons:

• Rash
• Itching or swelling of the face, tongue or throat
• Severe dizziness
• Trouble breathing

This is only a partial list of possible side effects. Notify your doctor if you experience any other side effects than the ones mentioned above, especially if they are bothersome.