An Alzheimer’s diagnosis is devastating. We all know there’s no drug cure for Alzheimer’s disease, but when a diagnosis is made a prescription for Donepezil (aka Aricept) is usually written. Here’s what you need to know:
3 Facts About Donepezil
- Donepezil helps increase the level of acetylcholine in the brain by inhibiting its breakdown. Acetylcholine is a brain chemical that plays an important role in memory and brain cell communication. People with Alzheimer’s disease tend to have low levels of acetylcholine.
- Donepezil does not slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, but it may slow the rate of cognitive decline for about six months. Some people may have side-effects which include trouble sleeping, nausea, nightmares, loss of appetite and muscle cramps.
- Abruptly discontinuing Donepezil usually results in rapid cognitive decline. Do not stop taking this medication without the supervision of your doctor.
- Donepezil doesn’t work for everyone, and might make things worse for some.
Considering these facts, if faced with the decision to take it – is it worth taking? I absolutely cannot answer that question for you and if you are already taking it DO NOT STOP taking it. As stated above, once started, discontinuing the medication can make cognitive decline worse. That said, I can answer for myself and encourage you to do your own research and make your own decision about Donepezil BEFORE you ever have the first symptom of cognitive decline, or if asked to take it by your doctor.
I’m proactive, I have a family history of Alzheimer’s disease, but no symptoms of cognitive decline. Based on what I’ve learned I know that taking Donepezil would not be worth it FOR ME. A drug that might work for six months, have unpleasant side effects and interfere with my sleep (which is important for my brain health) would not be my choice. Unfortunately, it’s one of the few things a doctor has to offer because a really effective drug hasn’t yet been developed.
There are a few non-standard, supportive alternatives. Here’s a little peek into 5 of the supportive supplements I use as part of my anti-Alzheimer’s lifestyle.
- ,Organic Ashwagandha and Bacopa Monnieri from Cytoplan
- The One from Quicksilver Scientific: A combination of PQQ, CoQ10 & resveratrol in a liposomal supplement.
- r-Omega from Cytoplan (an omega 3 supplement in phospholipid form from herring roe).
- Liposomal NAD+ from Quicksilver Scientific
- Cat’s Claw from Quicksilver Scientific for immune system support.
Preventing cognitive decline related to Alzheimer’s requires more than a few supplements, although targeted supplementation is an important part of a ,comprehensive program.
I recommend and personally follow the ReCODE protocol because of the science, the overall health results, and the documented reversals. I’ve seen many different sides of Alzheimer’s disease. Personally, my mother’s decline is the saddest thing I’ve ever witnessed, but it fuels my passion for my own prevention and for sharing what I know with you. There is hope, there’s a lot you can do before and beyond Donepezil and it’s important to start early.