Donepezil: Uses, Side Effects & Brands in Pakistan
Donepezil is an anti-dementia medicine (cholinesterase inhibitor). It is a prescription medicine used for alzheimer's disease and dementia. In Pakistan it is available as tablets, made by 2 different manufacturers. On this page you can read how it works, its common side effects and precautions, and compare the brands and prices available at Medimart.
How Donepezil works
Donepezil blocks an enzyme called acetylcholinesterase, which breaks down acetylcholine, a chemical messenger important for memory and learning. People with Alzheimer's have lower levels of acetylcholine, so keeping more of it available helps nerve cells communicate better.
What is Donepezil used for?
- Alzheimer's disease and dementia
Donepezil is used to treat the symptoms of mild, moderate and, in some countries, severe Alzheimer's disease. It can help with memory, attention, thinking and the ability to manage daily activities. It does not stop the disease progressing, but in many people it slows the worsening of symptoms for a time. Doctors sometimes use it for other forms of dementia as well.
Side effects of Donepezil
Side effects of Donepezil are often mild and may ease after the first few weeks. They include:
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Vivid dreams or trouble sleeping
- Muscle cramps
- Tiredness
- Loss of appetite
Get medical help quickly for fainting, a very slow heartbeat, black or bloody stools, vomiting blood, severe stomach pain or new seizures.
Precautions and warnings
- Tell the doctor about any heart rhythm problems, a history of stomach ulcers, asthma or COPD, seizures, or difficulty passing urine.
- Let the doctor know about other medicines, especially anti-inflammatory painkillers, heart medicines and medicines for bladder problems.
- It is often taken at bedtime, but if it causes vivid dreams or poor sleep, the doctor may suggest taking it in the morning instead.
- Tell the surgeon or anaesthetist about donepezil before any operation, as it can affect some anaesthetic medicines.
- Carers can help make sure it is taken regularly and should report any changes in behaviour, appetite or weight.
Frequently asked questions about Donepezil
What is the price of Donepezil in Pakistan?
At Medimart, Donepezil products currently in stock range from Rs 393 to Rs 675 per pack, depending on the brand, strength and pack size. The lowest-priced option right now is Doncept 5mg Tablets at Rs 393. Prices are updated regularly, so the product list on this page always shows the latest price.Which brands of Donepezil are available in Pakistan?
Donepezil is sold in Pakistan under brand names such as Doncept (Atco Laboratories Ltd), Donep (Genetics Pharmaceuticals) and Donecept (Atco Laboratories Ltd).Do I need a prescription for Donepezil?
Yes. Donepezil is a prescription medicine in Pakistan. Use it only when a doctor has prescribed it, at the dose and for the time they advise.
Are all Donepezil brands the same?
Brands that contain the same amount of Donepezil in the same form are expected to work in the same way, although inactive ingredients, pack sizes and prices differ. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before switching from one brand to another.
Donepezil brands and prices in Pakistan
Medimart lists 3 products containing Donepezil from different manufacturers. Compare strengths, pack sizes and prices below and order online with cash on delivery.
