Patient/caregiver was educated on the side-effects of using Donepezil as follows:
Gastrointestinal side-effects
- Donepezil use can result in common general constitutional symptoms such as, nausea and vomiting, especially when taken on empty stomach. Taking dose of olanzapine with a glass of water, after having some food or a snack can help avoid having unpleasant gastrointestinal symptoms with the medication.
- Potentiation of acetylcholine action in the body, secondary to donepezil use, can result in increased bowel activity, with occasional diarrhea. Observe compliance with hydration measures, to avoid risk for dehydration and fluid loss.
- Potentiation of acetylcholine action in the body, secondary to donepezil use, can result in severe gastrointestinal upset, increased acid secretion in stomach, worsening of heartburn and burning sensation in the stomach, and can result in the formation of gastric ulcers. Individuals concurrently taking NSAIDs, such as, Aspirin and Advil, can be at significant risk for this side-effect with donepezil. Individuals can present with findings of internal bleeding such as, black tarry stools, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, red colored urine, and frank bleeding per rectum.
