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The Side Effects of Aricept

Aricept is the name of a popular prescription medication that is used for the treatment and management of Alzheimer's disease. The medicine operates by slowing down the disease's progressive symptoms, and also by enhancing cognition (which is related to the memory), and slowing down functional losses (which can make daily life very difficult). As with any type of medication, there are some possible side effects that are associated with Aricept use.

  1. Common Side Effects

    • There are several common side effects that often occur due to Aricept use. These side effects are generally not seen as cause for alarm, as they tend to fade away on their own as the body adapts to the medication. However, if the side effects should worsen or not go away, a doctor should be notified. These side effects include unusual dreams, appetite loss, muscle cramps, dizziness, feeling lightheaded, diarrhea, difficulty sleeping, weight loss, throwing up, nausea and fatigue.

    Serious Side Effects

    • Some serious side effects are also possible with Aricept. With serious and potentially harmful side effects, it is vital to seek immediate, emergency medical assistance. These side effects are chest ache, urinating less frequently, black and tarry stools, bloody stools, seizures, passing out, fever, extreme dizziness, headache, abnormal bruising, tremors, irregular or slow heartbeat, swelling of the ankles, feet or hands, shortness of breath and depression.

    Allergic Reactions

    • Extreme allergic reactions are also possible with Aricept. With possibly dangerous allergic reactions, it is important to immediately get emergency assistance. Some signs of allergic reaction are swelling of the lips, mouth, tongue and face, breaking out into hives, skin rash, itchiness, chest tightness and having a hard time breathing.

    Caution

    • It it important to be very cautious when considering taking Aricept, and notify the doctor about any present medical conditions as well as medical history. People who have to be particularly careful include those who have donepezil allergies, those who have had stomach ulcers in the past, those with urination issues or an enlarged prostate, those with epilepsy, those with a heart rhythm condition and those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or asthma.

    Overdose

    • In cases of possible Aricept overdose, it is crucial to cease taking the medication immediately and get emergency medical attention. Some signs of Aricept overdose are weakness of the muscles, convulsions, shallow breathing, slow heartbeat, passing out, feeling lightheaded, blurry vision, sweating, drooling, extreme nausea and throwing up.

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