Aricep 5mg Tablet is a prescription medicine containing donepezil hydrochloride 5mg, an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor used for the treatment of dementia associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Eisai India lists Aricep as its donepezil hydrochloride product, and Indian regulatory pricing records identify the 5mg tablet under Eisai Pharmaceuticals India.
Donepezil is used to help manage cognitive symptoms of Alzheimer’s dementia, such as problems with memory, thinking, awareness and the ability to perform everyday activities. Clinical efficacy of donepezil has been demonstrated across mild, moderate and severe Alzheimer’s disease, although the appropriate dose depends on disease stage, tolerability and medical supervision.
Aricep does not cure Alzheimer’s disease and has not been shown to stop or reverse the underlying neurodegenerative process. Instead, it provides symptomatic treatment that may help some patients maintain cognitive and daily functioning for a period of time. Official donepezil labeling specifically notes that there is no evidence that it alters the underlying dementing process.
Donepezil works by reversibly inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, the enzyme responsible for breaking down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. This increases acetylcholine availability in the brain and may enhance cholinergic communication involved in memory, learning and other cognitive functions.
The 5mg strength is commonly used as the starting dose of donepezil. Current prescribing information recommends 5mg once daily initially, with any later dose increase based on medical assessment and tolerability. Donepezil tablets can be taken with or without food.
Common adverse effects include nausea, diarrhea, insomnia, vomiting, muscle cramps, fatigue and decreased appetite. Donepezil can also slow the heart rate in some patients and may increase the risk of fainting or heart block. Patients with a history of heart-rhythm problems, stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding, seizures, asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease should ensure their prescriber is aware of these conditions.
Product Information
Brand Name: Aricep 5mg Tablet
Generic Name: Donepezil Hydrochloride
Strength: 5 mg
Dosage Form: Tablet
Route: Oral
Drug Class: Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitor / Cholinesterase Inhibitor
Primary Established Use: Dementia associated with Alzheimer’s disease
Marketer: Eisai Pharmaceuticals India Pvt. Ltd.
Prescription Status: Prescription medicine