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Donepezil Coupon - Donepezil 10mg tablet

donepezil

Generic Aricept
Used for Alzheimer's Disease, Dementia
Used for Alzheimer's Disease, Dementia

Donepezil (Aricept) is a once-daily, oral medication used for dementia related to Alzheimer's disease (AD). It's available as a generic and can be used for all stages of Alzheimer's (e.g., mild, moderate, severe).

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Hope Chang, PharmD, AAHIVP
reviewer
Michelle Nguyen, PharmD
Last reviewed on January 9, 2022
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostAlternativesLatest newsImagesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Donepezil (Aricept)?

What is Donepezil (Aricept) used for?

  • Dementia related to Alzheimer's disease (AD)

How Donepezil (Aricept) works

Donepezil (Aricept) is a cholinesterase inhibitor. Researchers don't know exactly how it helps treat Alzheimer's disease, but the medication prevents the breakdown of a chemical called acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is important in transmitting signals through nerves in the brain for learning and memory.

Are you looking for information on rabeprazole (Aciphex) or rasagiline (Azilect) instead?
When does Donepezil (Aricept) start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Initial effect
Full effect

Drug Facts

Common BrandsAricept
Drug ClassCholinesterase inhibitor
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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Avg retail price
$98.40(save 90.85%)
GoodRx discount
$9.00
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What are the side effects of Donepezil (Aricept)?

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

  • 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%)

Other Side Effects

  • Bruising
  • Sleepiness
  • Fainting
  • Depression
  • Abnormal dreams
  • Weight loss
  • Arthritis (joint pain or swelling)
  • Urinating more often
When do Donepezil (Aricept) possible side effects begin and end?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Nausea or vomiting
Diarrhea
Loss of appetite
Risk of dizziness
Risk of having trouble sleeping
If a line continues to the right, you'll likely keep experiencing this side effect once it starts.

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Diarrhea

loss of appetite

muscle cramps

nausea

trouble in sleeping

unusual tiredness or weakness

vomiting

Less common

Abnormal dreams

constipation

dizziness

drowsiness

fainting

frequent urination

headache

joint pain, stiffness, or swelling

mental depression

pain

unusual bleeding or bruising

weight loss

Rare

Black, tarry stools

bloating

bloody or cloudy urine

blurred vision

burning, prickling, or tingling sensations

cataract

chills

clumsiness or unsteadiness

confusion

cough

decreased urination

difficult or painful urination

dryness of mouth

eye irritation

fever

flushing of skin

frequent urge to urinate

high or low blood pressure

hives

hot flashes

increase in sexual desire or performance

increased heart rate and breathing

increased sweating

increased urge to urinate during the night

irregular heartbeat

itching

loss of bladder control

loss of bowel control

mood or mental changes, including abnormal crying, aggression, agitation, delusions, irritability, nervousness, or restlessness

nasal congestion

pain in chest, upper stomach, or throat

problems with speech

runny nose

severe thirst

shortness of breath

sneezing

sore throat

sunken eyes

tightness in chest

tremor

troubled breathing

wheezing

wrinkled skin

Incidence not known

Back, leg, or stomach pains

bleeding gums

chest pain or discomfort

coma

convulsions

dark urine

difficulty breathing

fast or irregular heartbeat

fatigue

general body swelling

general tiredness and weakness

high fever

increased thirst

indigestion

light-colored stools

muscle pain or cramps

nausea and vomiting

nosebleeds

pains in stomach, side, or abdomen, possibly radiating to the back

pale skin

rash

seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not there

seizures

severe muscle stiffness

severe nausea

slow or irregular heartbeat

stomach pain

sweating

swelling of face, ankles, or hands

tiredness

unusually pale skin

upper right abdominal or stomach pain

yellow eyes and skin

Symptoms of overdose

Convulsions (seizures)

increased sweating

increased watering of mouth

increasing muscle weakness

low blood pressure

severe nausea

severe vomiting

slow heartbeat

troubled breathing

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Donepezil (Aricept)

thumbs-up

Pros

First-choice treatment option for Alzheimer's

Can be taken once a day with or without food

Also comes as a dissolvable pill for people who have a hard time swallowing tablets

Available as a lower-cost generic

thumbs-down

Cons

Not a cure for Alzheimer's

Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are common side effects, especially with higher doses

Might not be a good option for people with certain heart conditions or a history of stomach ulcers

Interacts with anticholinergic medications (e.g., oxybutynin (Ditropan), scopolamine (Transderm Scop))

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Donepezil (Aricept)

pharmacist

  • Take donepezil (Aricept) in the evening around bedtime. Taking the medication right before bedtime allows you to sleep through a lot of the side effects.

    • You can take donepezil (Aricept) with or without food.

      • If you're taking the orally disintegrating tablet (ODT), don't swallow it whole. Place the tablet on your tongue, and let the tablet dissolve. Drink a glass of water after the tablet dissolves to make sure you receive all of the medication.

        • Since Donepezil (Aricept) can raise your risk of stomach bleeds and ulcers, avoid taking anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). NSAIDs can raise your risk of stomach ulcers and bleeds even further.

          • If you miss a dose of donepezil (Aricept), skip your missed dose. Wait to take the next dose at your regular scheduled time the next night. Don't take 2 doses at the same time, since this can raise your risk of side effects.

            faqs

            Frequently asked questions about Donepezil (Aricept)

            Does donepezil (Aricept) really help dementia?
            In clinical trials, many people with Alzheimer's had better scores in their cognitive tests after taking donepezil (Aricept). Most of these studies looked at people with dementia related to Alzheimer's disease, so it might not work for other types of dementia. Ask your provider for treatment options if you have dementia related to other medical conditions.
            Who shouldn't take donepezil (Aricept)?
            Don't take donepezil (Aricept) if you've ever had an allergic reaction to donepezil (Aricept) or a similar medication. People taking anticholinergic medications might also want to avoid donepezil (Aricept), as the two medications can work against each other. Ask your provider or pharmacist if you're not sure if you're taking an anticholinergic medication. They're commonly used to help with bladder control and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
            Is donepezil (Aricept) or memantine (Namenda) a better medication?
            Donepezil (Aricept) and memantine (Namenda) are both good options for Alzheimer's disease. They work differently, and memantine (Namenda) doesn't have the same side effects as cholinesterase inhibitors. Donepezil (Aricept) and memantine (Namenda) can be taken together, and it's also available as a combination medication called Namzaric.
            Why is donepezil (Aricept) taken at night?
            It's recommended to take donepezil (Aricept) at night so you can sleep through some of the side effects. One of the more serious side effects is a slow heartbeat, which can raise your risk of fainting. Taking donepezil (Aricept) at night can help avoid this, but you should still be careful when you're getting out of bed. Make sure you have a sturdy surface to lean on when you're standing up. Some people have reported abnormal dreams and sleep disturbances when they take donepezil (Aricept) at night. If this is bothersome, talk to your provider about when the best time it is for you to take donepezil (Aricept).
            How quickly does donepezil (Aricept) work?
            You probably won't notice the effects of donepezil (Aricept) right away. Donepezil (Aricept) will take time to raise the levels of acetylcholine in your brain. Most clinical trials measured changes in cognitive abilities (e.g., memory, language, attention) after at least 1 month of taking the medication. You'll likely notice some difference in cognitive abilities within a few months.
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            What are the risks and warnings for Donepezil (Aricept)?

            Donepezil (Aricept) 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

            Slowed heartbeat

            Donepezil (Aricept) can slow down your heartbeat. In some cases, this can lead to fainting. Taking the medication before bedtime can help avoid this. Let your provider know if you have any falls or start to feel lightheaded. They might need to lower your dose.

            risk-warning

            Nausea and vomiting

            • Risk factors: Taking higher doses of donepezil (Aricept) | People weighing less than 55 kg (121 lbs)

              Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are common side effects of donepezil (Aricept). These side effects are more common when you first start the medication and whenever you raise your dose. They typically go away after a couple weeks of taking the same dose. Let your provider know if you have really bothersome nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, especially if it keeps you from taking your medication every day.

              risk-warning

              Stomach ulcers and bleeds

              • Risk factors: Taking NSAIDs | History of stomach ulcers or bleeds | Taking the maximum dose of donepezil (Aricept)

                Donepezil (Aricept) can raise the amount of stomach acid your body produces, which can put you at risk for stomach ulcers and bleeds. The risk is higher in people taking the maximum dose of donepezil (Aricept) (23 mg). NSAIDs, which are commonly found in over-the-counter cold and pain medications, can also raise your risk of stomach bleeds, so you might want to avoid taking these medications at the same time as donepezil (Aricept). Talk to your provider if you have worsening upset stomach, heartburn, or indigestion.

                risk-warning

                Weight loss

                • Risk factors: Taking higher doses of donepezil (Aricept)

                  Donepezil (Aricept) can cause weight loss. In clinical trials, about 5% of people taking the 23 mg dose and 3% of people taking the 10 mg dose reported weight loss. More people taking the 23 mg dose reported losing 7% or more of their body weight compared to those taking the 10 mg dose. Let your provider know if this is a concern for you.

                  dosage

                  Donepezil (Aricept) dosage forms

                  The average cost for 30 tablets of 10mg of Donepezil (Aricept) is $9.00 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 90.85% off the average retail price of $98.40.
                  orally disintegrating tab
                  Orally disintegrating tab
                  DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                  5mg30 orally disintegrating tabs$15.04$0.50
                  10mg90 orally disintegrating tabs$36.09$0.40
                  tablet
                  Tablet
                  DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                  5mg30 tablets$9.00$0.30
                  10mg30 tablets$9.00$0.30
                  23mg90 tablets$59.52$0.66

                  Typical dosing for Donepezil (Aricept)

                  The usual starting dose is 5 mg by mouth once in the evening before bedtime. If needed, the dose can be raised up to a maximum daily dose of 10 mg (for mild-to-moderate impairment) or 23 mg (for moderate-to-severe impairment).

                  interactions

                  Interactions between Donepezil (Aricept) and other drugs

                  Donepezil (Aricept) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Donepezil (Aricept). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                  Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                  Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                  Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                  drug-cost

                  How much does Donepezil (Aricept) cost?

                  To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.
                  Aricept (brand)
                  GoodRx lowest price

                  $9.00

                  (save 98.65%)
                  Donepezil (Aricept) (generic)
                  GoodRx lowest price

                  $9.00

                  (save 90.85%)
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                  alternatives

                  What are alternatives to Donepezil (Aricept)?

                  There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Donepezil (Aricept). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                  Donepezil (Aricept)
                  Used for:

                  • Dementia related to Alzheimer's disease (AD)

                  $9.00 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                  Rivastigmine patch (Exelon)
                  Used for:
                  $50.00 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                  Memantine (Nameda)
                  Used for:
                  $13.98 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                  latest news

                  What is the latest news about Donepezil (Aricept)?

                  Read on for donepezil dosage information for Alzheimer's, including typical dosages, adjustments, and the best time to take it.

                  Donepezil Dosages: Your GoodRx Guide

                  Read on for donepezil dosage information for Alzheimer's, including typical dosages, adjustments, and the best time to take it.
                  Learn exactly how donepezil works as our experts explain everything to know about its mechanism of action.

                  Donepezil’s Mechanism of Action: How This Medication for Alzheimer’s Disease Works

                  Learn exactly how donepezil works as our experts explain everything to know about its mechanism of action.
                  Read on to learn the side effects of donepezil (Aricept, Adlarity), including common, rare, and long-term effects, as well as how to manage them.

                  12 Donepezil Side Effects You Should Know About

                  Read on to learn the side effects of donepezil (Aricept, Adlarity), including common, rare, and long-term effects, as well as how to manage them.
                  Alzheimer’s-related dementia can be treated with oral, topical, and IV medications. Learn about the best treatments for Alzheimer’s, including side effects.

                  Alzheimer’s Medications: Comparing Your Treatment Options

                  Alzheimer’s-related dementia can be treated with oral, topical, and IV medications. Learn about the best treatments for Alzheimer’s, including side effects.
                  If you take donepezil (Adlarity, Aricept), it’s recommended to be careful with anticholinergic medications and beta blockers. See more donepezil interactions with GoodRx.

                  7 Donepezil Interactions You Should Know About

                  If you take donepezil (Adlarity, Aricept), it’s recommended to be careful with anticholinergic medications and beta blockers. See more donepezil interactions with GoodRx.
                  Donepezil and rivastigmine patches are in the same class of medications and have similar uses. However, there are a few differences to keep in mind.

                  Donepezil vs. Rivastigmine Patches for Alzheimer’s-Related Dementia

                  Donepezil and rivastigmine patches are in the same class of medications and have similar uses. However, there are a few differences to keep in mind.
                  Aricept and Adlarity are two versions of the same Alzheimer’s medication (donepezil) — one is a patch and the other is a tablet. Compare side effects and costs here.

                  Aricept vs. Adlarity for Alzheimer’s-Related Dementia

                  Aricept and Adlarity are two versions of the same Alzheimer’s medication (donepezil) — one is a patch and the other is a tablet. Compare side effects and costs here.
                  Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a stage of abnormal cognition that includes memory loss. In terms of seriousness, MCI is between normal age-related change and dementia. Learn about the changes that occur with MCI and its treatment or reversal, with GoodRx.

                  What Is Mild Cognitive Impairment? Can You Treat It?

                  Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a stage of abnormal cognition that includes memory loss. In terms of seriousness, MCI is between normal age-related change and dementia. Learn about the changes that occur with MCI and its treatment or reversal, with GoodRx.
                  You may already know that, like many pharmacies, Sam’s Club offers a selection of generic medications at $4 for a 30-day supply and $10 for a 90-day

                  Sam’s Club Now Offers More Prescription Savings for Plus Members

                  You may already know that, like many pharmacies, Sam’s Club offers a selection of generic medications at $4 for a 30-day supply and $10 for a 90-day
                  images

                  Donepezil (Aricept) images

                  Peach Round 10 - Donepezil Hydrochloride 10mg Tablet
                  This medicine is Peach, Round Tablet Imprinted With "10".Peach Round 10 - Donepezil Hydrochloride 10mg Tablet
                  Yellow Round Ml 88 - Donepezil Hydrochloride 10mg Tablet
                  This medicine is Yellow, Round Tablet Imprinted With "Ml 88".Yellow Round Ml 88 - Donepezil Hydrochloride 10mg Tablet
                  Yellow Round Sg And 140 - Donepezil Hydrochloride 10mg Tablet
                  This medicine is Yellow, Round Tablet Imprinted With "Sg" And "140".Yellow Round Sg And 140 - Donepezil Hydrochloride 10mg Tablet
                  Yellow Round Hh210 - Donepezil Hydrochloride 10mg Tablet
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                  Yellow Round L 161 - Donepezil Hydrochloride 10mg Tablet
                  This medicine is Yellow, Round Tablet Imprinted With "L 161".Yellow Round L 161 - Donepezil Hydrochloride 10mg Tablet

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