donep -sr 23 tablet - Donepezil (23mg) medicine

Alzil-SR 23 Tablet (Donepezil 23 mg): Complete Medicine Guide

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🏭 Alkem Laboratories Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Sep 25, 2026
⚠️ Hepatotoxicity Risk 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: High
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Sep 25, 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Fainting or severe dizziness
  • Irregular or very slow heartbeat
  • Black or tarry stools or vomiting blood
  • Seizures or convulsions
  • Difficulty breathing or swelling of face, lips, or throat
  • Severe abdominal pain or persistent vomiting
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes or dark urine
  • Sudden confusion or worsening of symptoms

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is donep -sr 23 tablet used for?

This medicine is a prescription oral tablet containing donepezil 23 mg, used to treat moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease. It works by increasing acetylcholine in the brain to improve memory and thinking. It is taken once daily in the evening, with or without food. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. It should not be used in patients with certain heart, stomach, or breathing conditions.

  • Generic Name: Donepezil
  • Manufacturer: Alkem Laboratories Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 donep -sr 23 tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा डोनेपेज़िल 23 मिलीग्राम युक्त एक प्रिस्क्रिप्शन ओरल टैबलेट है, जिसका उपयोग अल्जाइमर रोग के मध्यम से गंभीर लक्षणों के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह मस्तिष्क में एसिटाइलकोलीन नामक रसायन के स्तर को बढ़ाकर याददाश्त, सोच और दैनिक कार्यों को बेहतर बनाने में मदद करती है। यह दवा अल्जाइमर रोग का इलाज नहीं है, लेकिन लक्षणों की गति को धीमा कर सकती है। इसे आमतौर पर उन रोगियों के लिए निर्धारित किया जाता है जो पहले से डोनेपेज़िल 10 मिलीग्राम दैनिक ले रहे हैं और उन्हें पर्याप्त लाभ नहीं मिला है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में मतली, उल्टी, दस्त, भूख में कमी और वजन घटना शामिल हैं। ये आमतौर पर हल्के होते हैं और शरीर के अनुकूल होने पर कम हो सकते हैं। अन्य सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में सिरदर्द, चक्कर आना, थकान, नींद न आना और मांसपेशियों में ऐंठन शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभावों में धीमी हृदय गति, बेहोशी, दौरे, पेट में रक्तस्राव और पेशाब करने में कठिनाई हो सकती है। यदि आप कोई गंभीर या लगातार दुष्प्रभाव महसूस करें, तो तुरंत अपने डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को लेने से पहले, अपने डॉक्टर को बताएं यदि आपको हृदय रोग, अनियमित दिल की धड़कन, पेट के अल्सर, अस्थमा या दौरे का इतिहास है। यह दवा चक्कर और नींद का कारण बन सकती है, इसलिए जब तक आपको पता न चले कि यह आपको कैसे प्रभावित करती है, वाहन चलाने या भारी मशीनरी चलाने से बचें। इस दवा को लेते समय शराब न पिएं, क्योंकि इससे नींद और अन्य दुष्प्रभाव बढ़ सकते हैं। इस दवा को बिल्कुल वैसे ही लें जैसे आपके डॉक्टर ने बताया है, और डॉक्टर से परामर्श किए बिना इसे बंद या बदलें नहीं।

💡 Did You Know? The Indian pharmaceutical market is expected to reach $130 billion by 2030.

💊 donep -sr 23 tablet Uses & Benefits

  • [{"condition":"Alzheimer's disease","description":"This medicine is used to treat mild, moderate, and severe Alzheimer's disease.
  • It helps improve memory, attention, and daily functioning.","evidence":"Well-established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Lewy body dementia","description":"Sometimes prescribed off-label to help with cognitive symptoms in Lewy body dementia.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Vascular dementia","description":"May be used off-label for cognitive impairment due to vascular dementia, but evidence is mixed.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Alzheimer's disease

Also treats: Lewy body dementia, Vascular dementia

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Donepezil
Brand NameAricep 5 Tablet
ManufacturerAlkem Laboratories Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassNEURO CNS
Action ClassCholinesterase inhibitors - Alzheimer's disease
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F). Keep away from moisture and heat. Keep in the original container.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine in the evening to minimize daytime drowsiness and improve sleep.
2
Monitor your weight regularly, as this medicine can cause weight loss.
3
Inform your doctor if you experience fainting, dizziness, or irregular heartbeat.
4
Do not stop this medicine abruptly without consulting your doctor.
5
Keep a diary of your symptoms to track the effectiveness of the medicine.
6
Ensure regular follow-up visits to monitor heart rate, weight, and cognitive function.
7
Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Memory loss
This medicine is commonly prescribed for Alzheimer's disease.
Likely Use
✅
Confusion
This medicine may help with cognitive symptoms.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a fever reducer.
Not Primary
❌
Headache
This medicine is not a primary headache treatment.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionThis medicine is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. The absolute bioavailability is approximately 100%. Food does not significantly affect the absorption of this medicine.
DistributionThis medicine is widely distributed throughout the body, including the central nervous system. It is approximately 96% bound to plasma proteins, primarily albumin and alpha-1-acid glycoprotein.
Protein BindingApproximately 96% bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismThis medicine is extensively metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P450 enzymes, primarily CYP2D6 and CYP3A4, and also by glucuronidation. Its metabolites are not thought to contribute significantly to its therapeutic effect.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of this medicine is approximately 70 hours, allowing for once-daily dosing.
ExcretionThis medicine and its metabolites are primarily excreted in the urine (about 57%) and feces (about 15%).
BioavailabilityThe absolute bioavailability of this medicine is approximately 100%.
Onset of ActionThe onset of action for this medicine is gradual. It may take several weeks to months to see noticeable improvement in symptoms.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations are reached approximately 3 to 4 hours after oral administration.
Duration of ActionThe duration of action of this medicine is not precisely defined, but its long half-life allows for once-daily dosing and sustained effect.

How It Works

This medicine works by reversibly inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, which is responsible for breaking down acetylcholine in the brain. By blocking this enzyme, it increases the concentration of acetylcholine at cholinergic synapses, thereby enhancing cholinergic neurotransmission. This action is thought to improve cognitive function in patients with Alzheimer's disease, where cholinergic neurons are degenerated.

Mechanism Steps

1
Binding to acetylcholinesterase: This medicine binds reversibly to the active site of the acetylcholinesterase enzyme.
2
Inhibition of enzyme activity: This binding inhibits the enzyme's ability to break down acetylcholine.
3
Increased acetylcholine levels: As a result, acetylcholine accumulates in the synaptic cleft.
4
Enhanced cholinergic transmission: The increased acetylcholine enhances communication between nerve cells in the brain.
5
Improved cognitive function: This leads to temporary improvement or stabilization of cognitive symptoms in Alzheimer's disease.

💡 How to Take donep -sr 23 tablet

Strength: 23 mg immediate-release tablet

1Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
2Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
3You can take it with or without food.
4Take it at the same time each day, preferably in the evening.
5Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet.
6If you miss a dose, follow the missed dose instructions.
7Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe recommended adult dose of this medicine is 23 mg taken orally once daily in the evening, with or without food. This dose is typically used in patients who have been taking donepezil 10 mg daily for at least three months without adequate clinical response. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageNo specific dose adjustment is required for elderly patients, but they may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine. Use with caution.
Renal ImpairmentNo dose adjustment is required for patients with mild to moderate renal impairment. In severe renal impairment, use with caution and monitor closely.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo dose adjustment is required for patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment. In severe hepatic impairment, use with caution and monitor closely.
Maximum Daily Dose23 mg per day

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With or without food
Take at the same time each day
Food does not significantly affect absorption.
Grapefruit juice
Avoid
May increase drug levels by inhibiting CYP3A4.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than 12 hours have passed since the missed dose
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than 12 hours have passed since the missed dose
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of donep -sr 23 tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take with food to reduce nausea. If it persists, consult your doctor.
Diarrhea (Common (5-10%))
Stay hydrated. If diarrhea is severe or persistent, contact your doctor.
Vomiting (Common (5-10%))
Take with food and drink plenty of fluids. If vomiting continues, seek medical advice.
Loss of appetite (Common (5-10%))
Eat small, frequent meals. Monitor weight and inform your doctor if weight loss occurs.
Headache (Common (5-10%))
Rest and stay hydrated. If headache is severe or persistent, consult your doctor.
Insomnia (Common (5-10%))
Practice good sleep hygiene. If insomnia persists, talk to your doctor.
Fatigue (Common (5-10%))
Get adequate rest. If fatigue interferes with daily activities, consult your doctor.
Dizziness (Common (5-10%))
Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Slow heartbeat (bradycardia) (Uncommon (0.1-1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience fainting, dizziness, or palpitations.
Stomach bleeding (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you notice black or tarry stools, vomiting blood, or severe abdominal pain.
Seizures (Rare (<0.1%))
Call emergency services if a seizure occurs.
Difficulty urinating (Rare (<0.1%))
Consult your doctor if you have trouble urinating or experience pain.
Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek emergency help if you have swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
Seek immediate medical attention if you have high fever, muscle rigidity, confusion, or irregular heartbeat.
Liver problems
Report yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or abdominal pain to your doctor immediately.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Warfarin Moderate
Propranolol Major
Fluoxetine Moderate
Rifampin Moderate
Ketoconazole Moderate
Atropine Major
Ibuprofen Moderate
Carbamazepine Moderate
Paroxetine Moderate
Clarithromycin Moderate

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Anticholinergic medicines (e.g., atropine, benztropine)
  • Beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol)
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., fluoxetine, paroxetine)
  • CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin)
  • CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine)

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness caused by this medicine. It is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["Hypersensitivity to donepezil or any component of the formulation","History of stomach ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding","Severe asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease","Sick sinus syndrome or other supraventricular cardiac conduction abnormalities","History of seizures"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["This medicine may cause dizziness and drowsiness. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.","This medicine can cause slow heartbeat. Inform your doctor if you have a history of heart problems.","This medicine may increase stomach acid and cause ulcers. Inform your doctor if you have a history of ulcers.","This medicine can cause difficulty urinating. Inform your doctor if you have prostate problems.","This medicine may cause seizures. Inform your doctor if you have a history of seizures.","This medicine can cause weight loss. Monitor your weight and inform your doctor if you lose weight unexpectedly.","This medicine may interact with other medicines. Inform your doctor about all medicines you are taking."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

It is not known whether this medicine is excreted in human milk. Because many medicines are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when this medicine is administered to a nursing woman.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of this medicine can cause severe nausea, vomiting, salivation, sweating, slow heartbeat, low blood pressure, respiratory depression, and seizures. If overdose is suspected, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Atropine may be used to counteract severe cholinergic effects.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Before taking this medicine, tell your doctor if you have a history of heart problems, irregular heartbeat, stomach ulcers, asthma, or seizures. This medicine can cause dizziness and drowsiness, so avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine, as it can increase drowsiness and other side effects. Take this medicine exactly as prescribed, and do not stop or change the dose without consulting your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once. Keep this medicine out of reach of children, and store it at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the side effects of this medicine, especially bradycardia, dizziness, and falls. Regular monitoring of heart rate, blood pressure, and cognitive function is recommended. Dose adjustments may be needed based on renal and hepatic function.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. There are no adequate studies of this medicine in pregnant women. Your doctor will weigh the potential benefits and risks.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine before any surgery. This medicine may interact with anesthetic agents and affect heart rate. Your doctor may advise you to stop the medicine temporarily before surgery.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. This medicine may cause dry mouth and increase the risk of dental problems. Regular dental check-ups are recommended.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a regular sleep schedule to help with cognitive function.
🥗
Engage in mentally stimulating activities like puzzles and reading.
😴
Stay physically active with low-impact exercises like walking.
💧
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids.
🧘
Stay socially connected with family and friends.
🌞
Avoid alcohol and smoking.
🚭
Manage stress through relaxation techniques.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

This medicine can cause dizziness and fatigue. Avoid strenuous exercise or activities that require alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Consult your doctor before starting any new exercise program.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include omega-3 rich foods like fish and walnuts.
Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables.
Choose whole grains over refined grains.
Limit processed foods and added sugars.
Stay well hydrated.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine can cause dizziness, drowsiness, and fatigue, which may affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. It is important to avoid these activities until you know how this medicine affects you. You may need to adjust your work schedule or tasks accordingly. Discuss with your employer if you need accommodations.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. Stopping suddenly may worsen symptoms. Your doctor may decide to stop the medicine if it is no longer effective or if you experience severe side effects. Always follow your doctor's advice.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine may be associated with weight loss, slow heartbeat, and increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. Regular monitoring of heart rate, weight, and cognitive function is recommended. The medicine may lose effectiveness over time, and dose adjustments may be needed. It is important to have regular follow-ups with your doctor.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Cognitive stimulation therapy

Can complement medicine to improve cognitive function.

Evidence: Well-established
Physical exercise

Regular physical activity may help slow cognitive decline.

Evidence: Moderate
Mediterranean diet

May support brain health and reduce inflammation.

Evidence: Moderate

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

There are no known interactions between this medicine and vaccines. However, consult your doctor before receiving any vaccine while taking this medicine.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

When traveling with this medicine, carry it in its original packaging along with a copy of your prescription. Keep it in your carry-on luggage to avoid loss or temperature extremes. If crossing time zones, consult your doctor about adjusting the dosing schedule. Store it at room temperature and avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or moisture. Check the customs regulations of your destination country regarding prescription medicines.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 72-year-old man with moderate Alzheimer's disease
He had been taking donepezil 10 mg daily for six months but his memory and daily functioning continued to decline. His doctor switched him to this medicine 23 mg once daily. After about two months, his family noticed he was more engaged in conversations and could remember recent events better. He experienced mild nausea initially, which subsided after a few weeks.
💡 Lesson: This medicine can provide additional benefit for patients who do not respond adequately to lower doses, but it may take time to show improvement.
👤 A 68-year-old woman with severe Alzheimer's disease
She was started on this medicine 23 mg daily after her symptoms worsened on 10 mg. Her caregiver reported that she seemed more alert and less withdrawn. However, she developed bradycardia, which was detected during a routine check-up. Her doctor reduced the dose and monitored her heart rate closely.
💡 Lesson: Regular monitoring for side effects such as slow heartbeat is essential, especially in elderly patients with underlying heart conditions.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine may take several weeks to months to show noticeable improvement in symptoms. It is important to continue taking it as prescribed.

Q: Can I take this medicine with food?

A: Yes, this medicine can be taken with or without food. However, taking it with food may help reduce nausea.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.

Q: Is this medicine safe during pregnancy?

A: There are no adequate studies of this medicine in pregnant women. It should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Consult your doctor.

Q: Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

A: Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness caused by this medicine. It is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?
  • Is this medicine safe for my heart?
  • Will this medicine cure Alzheimer's?

🔄 Substitutes for donep -sr 23 tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine can cure Alzheimer's disease.
    Fact: This medicine does not cure Alzheimer's disease. It may help slow down the worsening of symptoms and improve daily functioning.
  • Myth: This medicine works immediately.
    Fact: This medicine may take several weeks to months to show noticeable improvement.
  • Myth: This medicine is safe for everyone.
    Fact: This medicine is not safe for everyone. It should not be used in patients with certain heart, stomach, or breathing conditions.
  • Myth: You can stop taking this medicine once you feel better.
    Fact: You should not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. Stopping suddenly may worsen symptoms.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Donepezil 23 mg tablet

Brand Alternatives

  • Alzil-SR 23 Tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"This medicine","class":"Acetylcholinesterase inhibitor","route":"Oral","frequency":"Once daily","common_side_effects":"Nausea, diarrhea, loss of appetite"},{"medicine":"Rivastigmine","class":"Acetylcholinesterase inhibitor","route":"Oral, Transdermal","frequency":"Twice daily (oral), Once daily (patch)","common_side_effects":"Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea"},{"medicine":"Galantamine","class":"Acetylcholinesterase inhibitor","route":"Oral","frequency":"Twice daily","common_side_effects":"Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea"},{"medicine":"Memantine","class":"NMDA receptor antagonist","route":"Oral","frequency":"Once or twice daily","common_side_effects":"Dizziness, headache, constipation"}]

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