Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Donepezil as follows:
- Donepezil intake closer to the sleep time can result in insomnia, with patients presenting with restlessness and irritability during the day time. If the insomnia is being severe, avoid taking the medication at bedtime. Report the insomnia to your physician and plan to have the medication sometime during the day, to avoid the induction of insomnia, with donepezil taken at sleep time. Also, avoid taking any caffeinated drinks closer to bedtime, which can help to have a restful sleep.
- Potentiation of acetylcholine action in the body, secondary to donepezil use, can result in disturbance in the neurotransmitter balance controlling the mood and behavior. This can be an issue, especially in individuals with history of mood disorders, as donepezil can result in increased risk of deterioration and worsening of clinical symptoms. Individuals can present with complaints such as, feeling low and depressed, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, gross appetite changes, impulsiveness, agitation, aggression, and suicidal thoughts. Promptly report to your physician regarding any symptoms of deterioration of mood and behavior, following donepezil use, so that, a change in plan of care could be considered.
