Pharm Exam 3 QUESTIONS WITH ANSWERS

Donepezil (Aricept) - acetylcholinesterase inhibitor First line tx - treats ALL stages of AD Take prior to bedtime Take with or without food Common side effects: NVD, insomnia, anorexia, dizziness, and weight loss Metabolism is inhibited by ketoconazole and quinidine 5-10mg PO QD for mild to moderate AD (initiate at 5mg, if no improvement in 4-6 weeks, increased to 10mg PO QD) 10mg or 23mg QD for moderate to severe AD Rivastigmine (Exelon) - acetylcholinesterase inhibitor Used for mild to moderate AD Take with food Side effects: N/V, anorexia, dyspepsia, asthenia Potential for drug interaction is low because of low protein binding and drug is not metabolized through the cytochrome P450 enzyme system Start at 1.5mg BIG and increase at 2 week intervals to a max of 6mg BID (target dose) -------------