When to Take Aricept (Donepezil)
Take Aricept once daily in the evening, just prior to bedtime. 1
Standard Dosing Schedule
The FDA-approved administration time is in the evening, just before retiring, which is the recommended timing for all doses (5 mg, 10 mg, and 23 mg). 1
Aricept can be taken with or without food, providing flexibility in administration while maintaining efficacy. 1
The once-daily evening dosing is supported by donepezil's long elimination half-life of approximately 70 hours, which allows for consistent therapeutic levels with a single daily dose. 2
Alternative Timing for Specific Side Effects
If insomnia or nightmares occur, switch to morning administration rather than evening dosing. 3
This timing adjustment addresses sleep-related adverse effects while maintaining therapeutic benefit, as the long half-life ensures continuous drug levels regardless of administration time. 2
Practical Dosing Considerations
Start at 5 mg once daily in the evening, and do not increase to 10 mg until the patient has been on 5 mg for at least 4 to 6 weeks. 1
For patients on 10 mg considering escalation to 23 mg, they must remain on 10 mg daily for at least 3 months before increasing. 1
Taking the medication with food can help minimize gastrointestinal side effects (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) without affecting absorption. 4, 1
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Do not split, crush, or chew the 23 mg tablet if prescribed, as this formulation requires intact administration. 1
Avoid premature dose escalation before the minimum 4-6 week period on 5 mg, as this increases the risk of adverse events without allowing adequate assessment of tolerability. 1
If switching from evening to morning dosing due to sleep disturbances, maintain the once-daily schedule rather than splitting doses, as donepezil is not formulated for twice-daily administration. 3, 2