Not medical advice. This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified doctor or pharmacist before taking any medicine. Donepezil requires a valid prescription.
Donepezil
Generic Name: DONEPEZIL HYDROCHLORIDE
Donepezil hydrochloride is a reversible inhibitor of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, known chemically as (±)-2, 3-dihydro-5, 6-dimethoxy-2-[[1-(phenylmethyl)-4-piperidinyl]methyl]-1 H -inden-1-one hydrochloride.
Data last updated: 30 March 2026 · Source: openFDA.gov, DailyMed (NLM/NIH)
Common Brand Names in India:
What is Donepezil Used For?
- Dementia of the Alzheimer's type
How Does It Work?
This is accomplished by increasing the concentration of acetylcholine through reversible inhibition of its hydrolysis by acetylcholinesterase.
Dosage & Administration
- Mild to Moderate Alzheimer's Disease: 5 mg to 10 mg once daily Moderate to Severe Alzheimer's Disease: 10 mg to 23 mg once daily 2.1 Dosing in Mild to Moderate Alzheimer’s Disease The recommended starting dosage of donepezil hydrochloride tablet is 5 mg administered once per day in the evening, just prior to retiring.
- The maximum recommended dosage of donepezil hydrochloride tablets in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease is 10 mg per day.
- A dose of 10 mg should not be administered until patients have been on a daily dose of 5 mg for 4 to 6 weeks. 2.2 Dosing in Moderate to Severe Alzheimer’s Disease The recommended starting dosage of donepezil hydrochloride tablet is 5 mg administered once per day in the evening, just prior to retiring.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
Serious Side Effects (seek immediate medical attention)
Warnings & Precautions
- Cholinesterase inhibitors are likely to exaggerate succinylcholine-type muscle relaxation during anesthesia Cholinesterase inhibitors may have vagotonic effects on the sinoatrial and atrioventricular nodes manifesting as bradycardia or heart block Donepezil hydrochloride can cause vomiting.
- Therefore, patients should be monitored closely for symptoms of active or occult gastrointestinal bleeding, especially those at increased risk for developing ulcers, e.g., those with a history of ulcer disease or those receiving concurrent nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Who Should NOT Take This?
- Known hypersensitivity to donepezil hydrochloride or to piperidine derivatives ( 4 ) Donepezil hydrochloride is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to donepezil hydrochloride or to piperidine derivatives.
Storage Instructions
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
Speak to a neurologist on Zospital
Consult a neurologist on Zospital before starting Donepezil. Verified Indian specialists available for in-clinic and online consultations.
Other Neurological Medicines
Sources: openFDA.gov · dailymed.nlm.nih.gov · nlm.nih.gov (RxNorm). Information is for educational purposes only. Consult a doctor before use.
FAQS
Donepezil – Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Donepezil, its uses, dosage and safety.
Donepezil is commonly prescribed in India for: Dementia of the Alzheimer's type. Always confirm the indication with a registered medical practitioner before starting any course.
Donepezil is sold in India under brand names such as Aricept, Donep, Donemax, Namzaric, Adlarity. You can also find it on online pharmacies like 1mg, Pharmeasy and Apollo Pharmacy.
Donepezil is a prescription-only (Schedule H) medicine in India. You will need a valid prescription from a registered MBBS / MD doctor to purchase it from a licensed pharmacy.
Common side effects of Donepezil can include: Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Headache, Dizziness, Fatigue, Insomnia, Rash. Less common but serious side effects can include: Severe, Serious, Seizure, Rhabdomyolysis, Pancreatitis. Stop the medicine and contact your doctor immediately if any of these appear.
This is accomplished by increasing the concentration of acetylcholine through reversible inhibition of its hydrolysis by acetylcholinesterase.
Indian guidelines often recommend lower starting doses of Donepezil for patients above 60-65, since kidney and liver function decline with age. A doctor should review the dose, especially if the patient already takes BP, sugar or heart medicines.
Pregnancy safety of Donepezil depends on the trimester and individual case. Indian gynaecologists usually avoid Category C/D drugs unless benefit clearly outweighs risk. Speak to your obstetrician before taking Donepezil during pregnancy or while planning conception.
Prices in India typically range from ₹30 – ₹500 per strip / vial depending on brand. Generic versions tend to cost 30-60% less than branded ones, and Jan Aushadhi outlets often stock the lowest-priced equivalents. Check 1mg or Pharmeasy for live MRP.
If you remember within a few hours of the missed dose, take it. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed one — never double up. Frequent missed doses reduce Donepezil's effectiveness, so consider setting a reminder or speaking to your doctor about a simpler schedule.
You can book an in-person or online consultation with a verified Indian specialist on Zospital — visit the doctor directory at https://zospital.com/doctor to find one near you.
Medical Disclaimer
The content provided on Zospital is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.