- Body system
- Neurology
- Brand names
- Aricept, Adlarity
What is Donepezil used for?
- Mild, moderate and severe Alzheimer dementia
How Donepezil works
Cholinesterase inhibitor: slows the breakdown of acetylcholine, improving signaling between nerve cells. It does not stop the disease.
Common side effects
- Nausea, diarrhea and loss of appetite
- Insomnia and vivid dreams
- Muscle cramps
- Bradycardia
Report right away
- Fainting or a slow heartbeat
- Black stools or vomiting blood
- Trouble urinating
Nursing considerations for Donepezil
- Check the heart rate: it can cause bradycardia and heart block.
- Raises the risk of GI bleeding with NSAIDs.
- Tell the anesthesia team: it exaggerates the effect of succinylcholine.
Patient teaching
- Usually taken at bedtime; if sleep is disturbed, ask about taking it in the morning.
- Benefits are modest and gradual; keep taking it as prescribed.
This card does not list doses. Use the prescriber's order, the product label and a current drug reference for dosing, and follow your facility's policies.
Alzheimer disease drugs practice questions
NCLEX-style questions on the class Donepezil belongs to.
3 questions. Choose an answer to see the rationale.
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A family asks if donepezil will cure their father's Alzheimer disease. What is the best response?
Show answer
Answer A: It may slow the worsening of symptoms but does not cure the disease Cholinesterase inhibitors provide modest symptomatic benefit; they do not stop the disease.
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Which assessment is important before giving donepezil?
Show answer
Answer D: Heart rate Increased cholinergic activity can cause bradycardia and syncope.
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Which drug for Alzheimer disease works by blocking NMDA receptors?
Show answer
Answer A: Memantine Memantine is an NMDA receptor antagonist. The others are cholinesterase inhibitors.
Frequently asked questions
What is Donepezil used for?
Mild, moderate and severe Alzheimer dementia.
What drug class is Donepezil?
Donepezil belongs to the class alzheimer disease drugs. Cholinesterase inhibitor: slows the breakdown of acetylcholine, improving signaling between nerve cells. It does not stop the disease.
What are the nursing considerations for Donepezil?
Check the heart rate: it can cause bradycardia and heart block. Raises the risk of GI bleeding with NSAIDs.
What should patients report while taking Donepezil?
fainting or a slow heartbeat; black stools or vomiting blood; trouble urinating.