Home » Health & Wellness » Alzheimer's Research » Alzheimer's Drugs - Part Three

Alzheimer's Drugs - Part Three

© Karen Largent

Donepezil hydrochloride (Aricept)

The second drug to be approved for the treatment of Alzheimer's symptoms is Donepezil or Aricept. It received approval from the prescription in January of 1997.United States FDA in November of 1996 and was available by

In August of 1997, Aricept received approval in Canada. It is the first drug approved in Canada for the treatment of Alzheimer's symptoms.

Aricept is similar to Tacrine in that it limits the breakdown of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. During clinical testing, Aricept or a placebo (dummy) were given to 473 patients for a period of 30 weeks. At the conclusion of the study, 80% of those given Aricept had shown improvement or had no further mental deterioration. Some improvements that have been noted include a better physical appearance, better attitude, renewed ability to laugh and a longer attention span.

Aricept does have some side effects, as most drugs do. Unlike Tacrine, Aricept does not produce the dangerous liver toxicity. The most frequently reported side effects are diarrhea and nausea.

Aricept may also cause an irregular heartbeat, particularly in those who have a pre-existing heart condition.

Aricept is less costly than Tacrine. It is taken in a 5 to 10 milligram dose once daily. It averages $30.00 less in cost per month than Tacrine.

In my next article, I will be presenting information on some lesser known drug treatments for AD and current investigational drugs.

The copyright of the article Alzheimer's Drugs - Part Three in Alzheimer's Research is owned by . Permission to republish Alzheimer's Drugs - Part Three in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.