Donepezil (Aricept) is a generic prescription drug that’s used to treat dementia related to Alzheimer’s disease.
In studies of donepezil, researchers saw no significant differences in side effects between older adults and those younger than 65 years old. But older adults may have a higher risk of specific side effects, including:
Also, older adults may be more likely to become dehydrated if they experience severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
More common side effects reported in studies of donepezil include:
- nausea and vomiting
- diarrhea
- fatigue
- insomnia
- reduced appetite
- muscle cramps
Donepezil may also cause serious side effects in some people, such as:
- seizures
- severe nausea and vomiting
- severe diarrhea
- depression
- urinary problems, including urinary tract infection (UTI) and urinary incontinence
To learn more about the drug’s serious side effects, talk with your doctor or see donepezil’s prescribing information.
The side effects of donepezil are generally the same regardless of age. But adults ages 65 years and older may have a higher risk of certain side effects.
Alzheimer’s disease is a condition that primarily affects older adults. The average age of people taking donepezil in studies was 73 years old. Based on the study results, the drug is considered safe for older adults in most cases.
Talk with your doctor or pharmacist to learn more about donepezil’s side effects and your specific risk of experiencing them.
Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.