Knowra Donepezil Donepezil Donepezil is a reversible acetylcholinesterase inhibitor used to treat symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. It can improve or stabilize cognition and daily functioning temporarily but does not stop the disease’s progression.
Acetylcholinesterase : An enzyme that breaks down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in synapses and neuromuscular junctions. Donepezil reversibly inhibits this enzyme, slowing acetylcholine breakdown.
Alzheimer's disease : A progressive neurodegenerative disease that causes declining memory, thinking, and everyday functioning. Donepezil is prescribed to manage cognitive and functional symptoms of this disease.
Tacrine : The first cholinesterase inhibitor approved in the United States for Alzheimer’s disease, later limited by liver toxicity and dosing demands. Donepezil followed tacrine with a more practical dosing schedule and a different safety profile.
Cognitive enhancement : The use of drugs or other interventions to improve cognitive functions such as memory, attention, or reasoning. Donepezil is used to support cognition, though its benefits are usually modest and temporary.
Acetylcholine : A neurotransmitter involved in attention, memory, muscle activation, and autonomic nervous system signaling. Donepezil increases the availability of this neurotransmitter at cholinergic synapses.
Mild cognitive impairment : A level of cognitive decline greater than expected for age but not severe enough to impair independent daily functioning. Donepezil is not routinely recommended for this condition because evidence of benefit is limited.
Hachiro Sugimoto : A Japanese medicinal chemist associated with the discovery and development of donepezil. His work contributed to the research program that produced donepezil.
Activities of daily living : Routine tasks that people perform for self-care and independent living. Treatment may help maintain these abilities for a time in some people with Alzheimer’s disease.
Cholinergic system : The network of neurons and signaling pathways that use acetylcholine as a neurotransmitter. Donepezil acts within this system, whose activity influences cognition and bodily functions.
Gastrointestinal adverse effects of cholinesterase inhibitors : Nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, and appetite loss associated with increased cholinergic activity during treatment. These common effects can limit donepezil dosing and contribute to weight loss.
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