Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Aricept as follows:
- Potentiation of acetylcholine action in the body, secondary to Aricept use, can also result in increased frequency of urination/polyuria and increased fluid loss. This can be a severe issue, especially in individuals who are on diuretics for blood pressure control and in individuals with poorly controlled blood sugars, as they often present with polyuria. Observe compliance with hydration measures, to avoid risk for dehydration due to excessive fluid loss. If the urination frequency is severe and uncontrolled, report it to your physician or other health care personnel, so that, your dose of Aricept could be revised or alternative plan of treatment be considered. Observing compliance with dietary recommendations and maintaining blood sugars within parameters defined can help with controlling polyuria in diabetics to some extent.
- Aricept intake carries the risk of lowering the threshold for seizures, thereby, resulting in seizure activity, especially in individuals with history of the same. Aricept must be cautiously administered in individuals with seizure history, along with appropriate anti-seizure therapy in place. Discuss with your physician regarding your history of seizures, if any, if you are newly started on Aricept. If you are newly diagnosed with seizure complaint, discuss with your physician regarding your safety with regards to continuing on Aricept, if you have been using Aricept for long. Report to your physician regarding any new/exacerbation of seizure episodes, while taking Aricept, for any appropriate change in the dose of Aricept to be made.
