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Compare Donepezil vs. Rivastigmine

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

  • Donepezil (Aricept)
    Rivastigmine
  • Donepezil (Aricept)
    Rivastigmine

  • Summary of Donepezil vs. Rivastigmine

    Summary for Cholinesterase inhibitor
    Prescription only

    Donepezil (Aricept) is a medication that's used to help adults with symptoms of dementia related to Alzheimer's disease (AD). It belongs to the drug class called cholinesterase inhibitors. Donepezil (Aricept) is taken once a day. It comes as both a brand-name and generic tablet that you swallow. There's also a generic orally disintegrating tablet (ODT) that melts on the tongue. Possible side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and trouble sleeping.

    Summary for Acetylcholinesterase inhibitor
    Prescription only

    Rivastigmine is used to help adults with symptoms of dementia related to Alzheimer's disease or Parkinson's disease. It belongs to the drug class called acetylcholinesterase inhibitors. Rivastigmine capsules are taken by mouth twice per day. The dosage typically depends how well you can tolerate the medication. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The brand-name version of the capsule, Exelon, is no longer available. But you can still get the capsules as a generic.

  • Indications of Donepezil vs. Rivastigmine

    Indications for
    •Dementia related to Alzheimer's disease (AD)
    Indications for
    •Dementia related to Alzheimer's disease or Parkinson's disease

  • Pros and Cons of Donepezil vs. Rivastigmine

    Pros and Const for Cholinesterase inhibitor
    Pros
    •First-choice treatment option for Alzheimer's disease
    •Can help with all stages of Alzheimer's disease (mild, moderate, or severe)
    •Taken once a day with or without food
    •Dissolvable pills available for some people who have trouble swallowing pills (5 mg and 10 mg only)
    Cons
    •Not a cure for Alzheimer's
    •Often causes nausea and diarrhea
    •Can have interactions with anticholinergic medications like oxybutynin and scopolamine (Transderm Scop)
    •Might not be a good option for people with a history of stomach ulcers or breathing problems
    Pros and Const for Acetylcholinesterase inhibitor
    Pros
    •A treatment option for dementia related to Alzheimer's or Parkinson's
    •A pill that's taken by mouth
    •Available in several strengths
    Cons
    •Taken twice per day with food
    •Not available in a liquid form
    •Can worsen the symptoms of other medical conditions (e.g., breathing problems, trouble urinating, stomach ulcers)

  • Common Side Effects of Donepezil vs. Rivastigmine

    Common Side Effects for
    •Nausea (11%)
    •Diarrhea (10%)
    •Headache (10%)
    •Trouble sleeping (insomnia, 9%)
    •Pain (9%)
    •Dizziness (8%)
    •Muscle cramps (6%)
    •Tiredness (5%)
    •Vomiting (5%)
    •Loss of appetite (4%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Nausea (47%)
    •Vomiting (31%)
    •Dizziness (21%)
    •Diarrhea (19%)
    •Headache (17%)
    •Loss of appetite (17%)
    •Stomach pain (13%)

  • Warnings of Donepezil vs. Rivastigmine

    Common Side Effects for
    •Slower heartbeat
    •Nausea and vomiting
    •Stomach ulcers and bleeds
    •Weight loss
    •Caution use in people with urinary problems
    •Caution use in people with breathing problems
    Common Side Effects for
    •Stomach upset and loss of appetite
    •Other side effects from rivastigmine

  • Prices with our coupons for Donepezil vs. Rivastigmine

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    Learn more about Rivastigmine

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