What it means
A cholinesterase inhibitor for mild to severe Alzheimer diseaseAHLTS-hy-mer dih-ZEEZA brain disease that slowly destroys memory, thinking and the ability to do everyday tasks.Full entry . It does not stop the disease, but may slow the decline in memory and daily function for a time. Common effects are nausea, diarrhea, poor appetite, vivid dreams and a slow heart rate.
For the nurse
It is usually taken at bedtime. Check the pulse and report a slow rate, fainting or dizziness. Watch weight and appetite. Teach the family that benefits are modest and that it should not be stopped suddenly.
At a glance
| Drug class | cholinesterase inhibitor |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Aricept, Aricept ODT |
| Also written | Aricept |
Related terms
bradycardia
A heart rate slower than normal; in an adult, fewer than 60 beats per minute.
Alzheimer disease
A brain disease that slowly destroys memory, thinking and the ability to do everyday tasks.
neurotransmitter
A chemical that a nerve cell releases to pass a signal to another nerve, muscle or gland cell.