Introduction

Donepezil 5 mg tablet, marketed under the brand name DONEPAZE 5, is a prescription medication widely used in the management of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia-related cognitive decline. It belongs to a class of drugs called acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, which work by improving communication between nerve cells in the brain.This article provides a complete overview of Donepezil 5 mg, including its composition, uses, dosage, mechanism of action, side effects, precautions, brand information, and price in India.

Composition of Donepezil 5 mg (DONEPAZE 5)

• Active Ingredient: Donepezil Hydrochloride 5 mg

• Form: Oral tablet

• Category: Acetylcholinesterase inhibitor (Cognitive enhancer)

Donepezil 5 mg Tablet Uses

Donepezil 5 mg is primarily prescribed for neurological and cognitive disorders. Some of its main uses include:

1. Alzheimer’s Disease

   • Slows down memory loss

   • Improves thinking ability

   • Enhances communication skills

2. Dementia in Parkinson’s Disease

   • Supports mental clarity

   • Reduces confusion

3. Vascular Dementia (in some cases)

   • May help with symptoms related to brain damage caused by poor blood flow

4. Off-Label Uses (Only under doctor’s supervision)

   • Cognitive impairment in other neurological conditions

   • Mild memory problems in elderly patients

How Donepezil 5 mg Works (Mechanism of Action)

Donepezil works by inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, which normally breaks down acetylcholine (a neurotransmitter vital for memory and learning).

• By preventing its breakdown, Donepezil increases acetylcholine levels in the brain.

• This helps improve communication between nerve cells and enhances memory, alertness, and overall cognitive function.

Donepezil 5 mg Dosage and Administration

• Typical Starting Dose: 5 mg once daily (usually at bedtime).

• Route: Oral (with or without food).

• Duration: Long-term use may be required depending on the condition.

• Important Note: Dose adjustments should only be made by a healthcare provider.

Donepezil 5 mg Side Effects

Like all medicines, Donepezil may cause some side effects. Most are mild to moderate.

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea

• Diarrhea

• Loss of appetite

• Trouble sleeping (insomnia)

• Muscle cramps

• Fatigue

Serious Side Effects (seek medical attention immediately):

• Irregular heartbeat (bradycardia)

• Severe dizziness or fainting

• Gastrointestinal bleeding

• Seizures

• Trouble urinating

Precautions and Warnings

Before taking Donepezil 5 mg, patients should keep the following in mind:

1. Medical Conditions to Discuss with Doctor:

   • Heart disease

   • Asthma or COPD

   • Stomach ulcers

   • Epilepsy or seizures

   • Liver problems

2. Pregnancy & Breastfeeding:

   • Not recommended unless clearly needed.

   • Safety in breastfeeding mothers is not established.

3. Alcohol Consumption:

   • Avoid alcohol as it may worsen side effects.

4. Driving & Operating Machinery:

   • Donepezil may cause dizziness; caution is advised.

Donepezil 5 mg Interactions

Donepezil may interact with other medicines, reducing its effectiveness or increasing side effects.

Common Interactions:

• Anticholinergic drugs (e.g., atropine) – reduce effectiveness

• NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, aspirin) – increase risk of stomach bleeding

• Antifungal agents (e.g., ketoconazole) – may increase Donepezil levels

• Cardiac drugs (e.g., beta-blockers) – may slow heart rate excessively

Donepezil 5 mg Price in India

The price of DONEPAZE 5 (Donepezil 5 mg tablet) may vary depending on the brand, manufacturer, and pharmacy.

• Average Price Range in India: ₹80 – ₹150 for a strip of 10 tablets

(Note: Prices may vary across locations and online pharmacies.)

Donepezil 5 mg Brand Name (DONEPAZE 5)

• Brand Name: DONEPAZE 5

• Generic Name: Donepezil Hydrochloride 5 mg

• Manufacturer: Steris Healthcare Pvt Ltd (known for high-quality, affordable medicines)

Why Choose Steris Healthcare’s DONEPAZE 5?

1. Quality Assurance – Manufactured under WHO-GMP certified facilities.

2. Affordable Pricing – Cost-effective treatment option for long-term therapy.

3. Trusted Brand – Widely prescribed by healthcare professionals.

4. Pan-India Availability – Easily accessible through medical stores and distributors.

Patient’s Point of View

Living with Alzheimer’s or dementia can be challenging, both for patients and caregivers. Medicines like DONEPAZE 5 (Donepezil 5 mg) play a vital role in:

• Slowing disease progression

• Preserving independence in daily activities

• Improving memory and mental function

• Enhancing overall quality of life

While it is not a cure, Donepezil offers hope and better management of symptoms.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is Donepezil 5 mg used for?

Donepezil 5 mg is used to treat Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, improving memory, awareness, and ability to perform daily tasks.

2. Is Donepezil 5 mg a sleeping pill?

No, it is not a sleeping pill. It is a cognitive enhancer used for memory-related disorders.

3. Can Donepezil cure Alzheimer’s disease?

No, Donepezil cannot cure Alzheimer’s. It only slows down symptom progression and improves quality of life.

4. What is the price of Donepezil 5 mg in India?

The price of DONEPAZE 5 is around ₹80–₹150 for a strip of 10 tablets.

5. Can Donepezil be stopped suddenly?

No. Stopping Donepezil suddenly may worsen symptoms. Always consult your doctor before discontinuing.

6. When should Donepezil be taken – morning or night?

It is usually recommended to take at night before bedtime, unless advised otherwise by a doctor.

Conclusion

Donepezil 5 mg (DONEPAZE 5) is an important medication for the management of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. By improving cognitive function and slowing the decline in memory, it helps patients lead a better life.With the trust and quality of Steris Healthcare, DONEPAZE 5 ensures affordability and accessibility for patients across India. Always take this medicine under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.