What is the brand name for Donepezil?
The brand name for Donepezil is Aricept.
PTCE Top 200 · #126
Donepezil
Aricept
Donepezil is the generic name for the brand-name drug Aricept. It is an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor (dementia) used to treat Alzheimer dementia. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Donepezil ranks #126 and is one of the most frequently tested cns/psych medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Donepezil |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Aricept |
| Drug class | Acetylcholinesterase inhibitor (dementia) |
| Class group | CNS/Psych |
| Common use | Alzheimer dementia |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Donepezil used for?
Treatment of dementia of the Alzheimer's type (mild, moderate, or severe).
What drug class is Donepezil?
Donepezil is an Acetylcholinesterase inhibitor (dementia) in the CNS/Psych group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Donepezil
- arrow_rightNausea
- arrow_rightDiarrhea
- arrow_rightInsomnia
- arrow_rightVomiting
- arrow_rightMuscle cramps
- arrow_rightFatigue
- arrow_rightAnorexia
Major interactions
- arrow_rightAnticholinergics may reduce effectiveness (opposing effects)
- arrow_rightNSAIDs → increased GI bleeding risk
- arrow_rightOther bradycardic drugs (beta-blockers) → bradycardia/syncope risk
Is Donepezil a controlled substance?
No. Donepezil is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
How to remember Donepezil (PTCE mnemonic)
ARI-cept ARI-ses memory — DONE-pezil boosts acetylcholine in dementia. Bedtime dose; GI upset, bradycardia (syncope), vivid dreams; mild benefit only.
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
Donepezil boosts acetylcholine for Alzheimer's — GI upset and a slow heart rate are the flags. Contrast its mechanism with memantine's NMDA blockade.
Donepezil FAQ
What is Donepezil used for?
Donepezil is used to treat Alzheimer dementia. Treatment of dementia of the Alzheimer's type (mild, moderate, or severe).
What drug class is Donepezil?
Donepezil is an Acetylcholinesterase inhibitor (dementia) (CNS/Psych group).
Is Donepezil a controlled substance?
No. Donepezil is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the CNS/Psych group
Drill Donepezil the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).