# Donepezil Hcl (Aricept)

Source: https://ourhealthnetwork.com/drugs/donepezil-hcl
Data: FDA Orange Book and OpenFDA, refreshed periodically

## What is Donepezil Hcl?

Donepezil Hcl (brand name: Aricept) is a cholinesterase inhibitor. It is prescribed to treat alzheimer disease. Across the United States, 119,000 doctors prescribe Donepezil to approximately 1.3 million Medicare patients, making it one of the 50 most prescribed drugs in America.

## Brand names

Aricept

## Indications

Donepezil Hcl is primarily prescribed for the treatment of alzheimer disease.

## Conditions treated

- [Alzheimer Disease](https://ourhealthnetwork.com/conditions/alzheimer-disease)

## Mechanism of action

Current theories on the pathogenesis of the cognitive signs and symptoms of Alzheimer's disease attribute some of them to a deficiency of cholinergic neurotransmission. Donepezil hydrochloride is postulated to exert its therapeutic effect by enhancing cholinergic function.

## Drug classification

- Established Pharmacologic Class: Cholinesterase Inhibitor
- Route of administration: ORAL

## Common side effects

nausea, diarrhea, insomnia, vomiting, muscle cramps, fatigue

## Sources and disclaimers

- FDA Orange Book and OpenFDA dataset
- This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.

## Related

- [All drugs](https://ourhealthnetwork.com/drugs)
- [Find specialists who prescribe this drug](https://ourhealthnetwork.com/find-doctors)
- [Methodology](https://ourhealthnetwork.com/methodology)