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Adlarity

donepezil
Used for Alzheimer's Disease, Dementia
Used for Alzheimer's Disease, Dementia

Adlarity (donepezil) is a patch that's placed on the skin. It's used for dementia in people living with Alzheimer's disease (AD). Adlarity (donepezil) can be used for all stages of AD, ranging from mild to severe. It works as an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor to relieve symptoms of dementia. The patch is applied once a week, and only one patch should be worn at a time. Common side effects include headache, itching where the patch is, and trouble sleeping. There's currently no generic version of the patch available.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Ally Tsai, PharmD
reviewer
Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
Last reviewed on May 9, 2025
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageCostContraindicationsAlternativesLatest newsPricesMedicare
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What is Adlarity (donepezil)?

What is Adlarity (donepezil) used for?

How Adlarity (donepezil) works

People living with AD tend to have less of a chemical called acetylcholine (ACh) in their brain. ACh is important for sending signals in the brain for learning and memory.

Adlarity (donepezil) is an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor. It works by blocking a protein called cholinesterase from working. This helps acetylcholine stick around in the brain for a longer time. It's thought that more ACh in the brain might help relieve some symptoms of dementia.

Are you looking for information on donepezil tablets (Aricept) instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsAdlarity
Drug ClassAcetylcholinesterase inhibitor
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only

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What are the side effects of Adlarity (donepezil)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Headache (15%)
  • Itching at the application site (9%)
  • Muscle spasms (9%)
  • Trouble sleeping (7%)
  • Rash or skin irritation at the application site (6%)
  • Stomach pain (6%)
  • Constipation (6%)

Other Side Effects

  • Diarrhea
  • Dizziness
  • Strange dreams
  • Pain at the application site
  • Cuts on your skin

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Allergic reaction on the skin: a rash that spreads, swelling, skin peeling, blisters
  • Seizure

Source: DailyMed

More on Adlarity (donepezil) side effects

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The following side effects have also been reported

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Peptic ulcer—burning stomach pain, loss of appetite, bloating, burping, heartburn, nausea, vomiting
  • Seizures
  • Slow heartbeat—dizziness, feeling faint or lightheaded, confusion, trouble breathing, unusual weakness or fatigue
  • Stomach bleeding—bloody or black, tar-like stools, vomiting blood or brown material that looks like coffee grounds
  • Trouble passing urine

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Adlarity (donepezil)

thumbs-up

Pros

Only applied once a week

Applied to the skin, so a good choice for people who don't like taking pills

Can choose from a few different spots to apply the patch (the back, upper buttock, or upper outer thigh)

A first-choice option for helping with thinking and memory problems related to Alzheimer's

thumbs-down

Cons

Can cause irritation where it's applied

Need to avoid heat exposure, like saunas and a lot of sunlight

Must store patches in the refrigerator

Not a cure for Alzheimer's

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Adlarity (donepezil)

pharmacist

  • Review the instructions for use for Adlarity (donepezil). Ask your prescriber or pharmacist if you have questions about how to use or apply the patch.

    • Store Adlarity (donepezil) in the refrigerator (but don't let it freeze). Keep each patch in its sealed pouch to make sure the medication stays effective.

      • Before applying Adlarity (donepezil), take 1 pouch out of the refrigerator and let it reach room temperature. Don't use a heater or microwave to warm it up. Don't use the patch if it's been out at room temperature for more than 24 hours since it might not work as well.

        • When to apply Adlarity (donepezil): Apply 1 patch once a week and leave it on for 7 days. Choose a day of the week that's convenient or easier to remember. Set a reminder on your calendar to replace the patch. Take off the old patch and put on a new one every 7 days.

          • Where to apply Adlarity (donepezil): Put the patch onto clean, dry, and hairless skin. Choose an area on your upper or lower back (not the spine), upper buttocks, or upper outer thighs. Don't put the patch onto skin with lotion or cream on it, bruises, redness, or where tight clothes might rub it off. Use a different spot each time and wait at least 2 weeks before using the same area again to avoid skin irritation.

            • Don't put 2 Adlarity (donepezil) patches on your skin at any time. Too much medication can get absorbed in your body, which can raise your risk of side effects.

              • You don't need to take off Adlarity (donepezil) for showers, baths, or hot weather. But try to avoid exposing the patch to heat for a long period of time. This includes time in the sauna, direct sunlight, and below heating pads. It might affect how much medication your skin absorbs and could lead to side effects.

                • What to do if you forget to apply Adlarity (donepezil) or if the patch falls off: Apply a new patch as soon as possible. Keep this new patch on for the next 7 days before replacing it. Don't apply 2 patches to make up for a missed dose. If you have questions about missed doses, call your prescriber.

                  • How to throw away used Adlarity (donepezil): Slowly peel off the patch, fold it in half with the sticky sides together, and throw it away in the regular trash. Don't reuse worn patches. Wash your hands with soap and water afterwards to clean off any medication from the patch.

                    • Tell your care teams about any prescription or over-the-counter medications you take. Adlarity (donepezil) can affect how some medications work or how safe your medications are for you. This can include some beta blockers, medications for COPD or overactive bladder, and anesthesia medications.

                      • If you're switching from donepezil tablets (Aricept) to Adlarity (donepezil) patches, follow your prescriber's instructions. Usually, you can put on your first patch on the same day you take your last tablet.

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                        faqs

                        Frequently asked questions about Adlarity (donepezil)

                        What should you avoid when taking Adlarity (donepezil)?
                        Avoid getting Adlarity (donepezil) too hot for long periods of time. This includes using saunas and heating pads and being in direct sunlight. Too much heat can make too much medication get absorbed into your body and raise the risk of side effects. You can still shower or bathe with the patch on, but don't use very hot water. Also avoid alcohol and other medications that can make you dizzy. This can make side effects like dizziness worse. Don't stop using Adlarity (donepezil) without talking to your prescriber first. This might make your dementia symptoms get worse.
                        What is the most common side effect of Adlarity (donepezil)?
                        The most common side effect of Adlarity (donepezil) is headache. In studies, 15% of people taking this medication had this side effect. Most of the time, you can manage headaches at home. Drink plenty of water or try taking an over-the-counter pain reliever to help. If your headache is severe or doesn't go away, ask a healthcare professional for advice.
                        Is Adlarity (donepezil) a controlled substance?
                        No, Adlarity (donepezil) isn't a controlled substance. It isn't known to have a risk of misuse, addiction, or dependence.
                        Does Adlarity (donepezil) slow down dementia?
                        Donepezil, the active ingredient in Adlarity, can help slow down the worsening of dementia symptoms in some people with Alzheimer's disease. Some studies suggest that starting treatment early might help more. Keep in mind that everyone's experience with the medication can be different. Some people might have noticeable improvements, some might stay the same for a while, and others might not notice much change. Talk to your prescriber about how Adlarity (donepezil) might help you.
                        How long does it take for Adlarity (donepezil) to work?
                        It can take a month or more to see improvement in your dementia symptoms after starting Adlarity (donepezil). Everyone responds to treatment differently, and it can take time to find the dose that works best for you. You start the patch at a lower dose (5 mg/day). Then after 4 to 6 weeks, your prescriber might raise the dose to 10 mg/day. As you take the medication, your care team will check how you're doing to see if it's helping.
                        Where can I apply Adlarity (donepezil)?
                        Apply Adlarity (donepezil) to clean, dry, and hairless skin. It's recommended to put the patch on either your upper or lower back (not the spine). Other places you can apply it are the upper buttocks or upper outer thighs. These spots are usually options for people who can put the patch on themselves and won't take it off too early. Don't apply Adlarity (donepezil) to areas of skin with lotion, cream or powder on it. And avoid bruised, red, irritated, or cut skin. Place each new patch onto a different area and wait at least 2 weeks to use the same spot again. This helps prevent the skin from getting as irritated.
                        How should I dispose of Adlarity (donepezil) when it's time to take it off?
                        After taking Adlarity (donepezil) off, fold it in half with the sticky sides pressed together. This keeps leftover medication on the patch from getting on pets, children, or other people. Throw the used patch in the regular trash. Don't flush it down the toilet because it could clog your plumbing system. Wash your hands with soap and water after throwing the patch away.
                        What's the difference between Adlarity (donepezil) and donepezil (Aricept)?
                        Adlarity and Aricept are both used for Alzheimer's-related dementia. They both have the same active ingredient: donepezil. You can expect similar improvements with the two medications. But how you take them and how often you take them are different. Adlarity (donepezil) is a patch you put on your skin once a week and worn for 7 days before needing to replace it. Donepezil (Aricept) is a tablet you take by mouth every night. It comes as a regular tablet that you swallow whole or a fast-melting tablet you place on your tongue. Talk to your healthcare professional to compare and see which medication is best for you.
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                        What are the risks and warnings for Adlarity (donepezil)?

                        Adlarity (donepezil) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                        risk-warning

                        Skin reactions at the application site

                        You might have reactions where you place Adlarity (donepezil) on the skin. This can include redness, swelling, or irritation. Usually, these reactions are mild. But in rare cases, some people can have a serious allergic reaction on their skin.

                        Stop using Adlarity (donepezil) and let your prescriber know right away if you have a rash that spreads, swelling, skin peeling, or blisters. Also tell your prescriber if any skin reactions don't get better within 48 hours after taking the patch off.

                        risk-warning

                        Slow heart rate and fainting

                        Adlarity (donepezil) can sometimes make your heart beat slower or cause heart block. This can happen even if you've never had heart problems before. Let your prescriber know if you feel dizzy, have trouble breathing, feel your heart racing, or faint while taking Adlarity (donepezil).

                        risk-warning

                        Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea

                        • Risk factors: First starting Adlarity (donepezil) | Taking a higher dose of Adlarity (donepezil)

                          You might have diarrhea, feel nauseous, or vomit with donepezil. This includes with Adlarity (donepezil), the patch version of the medication. These side effects are more likely to happen when you first start this medication or when your dose goes up. But they usually last 1 to 3 weeks and then go away on their own.

                          If you have diarrhea or vomit while taking Adlarity (donepezil), make sure to drink plenty of fluids so you don't get dehydrated. Tell your prescriber if the nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea gets severe or if it bothers you a lot. They can help you manage these side effects.

                          risk-warning

                          Possible stomach bleeding and ulcers

                          • Risk factors: History of stomach ulcers or stomach bleeds | Taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

                            Medications like Adlarity (donepezil) can cause your body to make more stomach acid. This might put you at risk for stomach ulcers and bleeding. But studies with donepezil tablets didn't show a higher risk of this problem.

                            Be careful taking Adlarity (donepezil) if you've had stomach ulcers or or stomach bleeding before. Also be aware of this risk if you take other medications that can irritate your stomach, like ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve).

                            Tell your prescriber if you have signs of a stomach ulcer. This can include a dull or burning pain in the upper stomach that comes and goes, a burning feeling in the chest, or bloating. Get medical help right away if you vomit coffee grounds or have dark, tarry stools. These could be signs of stomach bleeding.

                            risk-warning

                            Possible seizures

                            Medications like Adlarity (donepezil) might raise the risk of having a seizure. But the evidence is mixed. A seizure could happen because the medication helps acetylcholine stay in the brain longer. Too much acetylcholine can affect brain activity. Keep in mind that seizures can also be caused by Alzheimer’s disease itself.

                            Tell your loved ones or caregivers about this risk so that they can watch for signs of a seizure and know how to help you. Let your prescriber know if you have a seizure. Also let them know if you feel dazed, limp, or stiff because these could be signs of a seizure.

                            risk-warning

                            Caution use in people with lung problems

                            • Risk factor: History of asthma | History of chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD)

                              Medications like Adlarity (donepezil) might worsen lung problems. This is because having too much acetylcholine in the body can cause less air to travel to and from your lungs. It might also make more mucus build up in the airways.

                              Tell your prescriber if you have asthma, chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD), or other lung problems. Let them know if your lung problems get worse after you start taking Adlarity (donepezil). Also tell them if you have any new problems like trouble breathing, wheezing, or coughing.

                              dosage

                              Adlarity (donepezil) dosage forms

                              The average cost for 4 kits of 10mg/day of Adlarity (donepezil) is $438.25 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 17.44% off the average retail price of $530.83.
                              kit
                              Kit
                              DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                              5mg/day4 kits$438.25$109.56
                              10mg/day4 kits$438.25$109.56

                              Typical dosing for Adlarity (donepezil)

                              The typical dose is to apply 1 patch onto the skin once weekly.

                              You'll first start with the 5 mg/day strength. After 4 to 6 weeks, your prescriber might raise your dose to the 10 mg/day strength. This depends on how you respond to the medication.

                              More on Adlarity (donepezil) dosage forms

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                              Adlarity (donepezil) contraindications

                              Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Adlarity (donepezil) will not be safe for you to take.
                              alternatives

                              What are alternatives to Adlarity (donepezil)?

                              There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Adlarity (donepezil). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                              Adlarity (donepezil)
                              Used for:
                              $438.25 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                              Donepezil (Aricept)
                              Used for:

                              • Dementia related to Alzheimer's disease (AD)

                              $9.00 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                              Namzaric (memantine / donepezil ER)
                              Used for:
                              $83.91 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices

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