Donepezil

vludwig

Unfortunately I have not seen any improvement in my mom‘s short term memory with this medication. Only the side effects like nightmares and things like that. I’m wondering if anybody has experience with their loved one getting off of this medication and if there is any side effects. I read one article that said if someone stops taking it, they probably will be in a nursing home within a year.Im really scared for my mother and I don’t know what to do. This disease is killing me too. I don’t have good coping skills and I worry so much about her. If anyone knows anything about medication, I would appreciate any input. I only found this website and forum recently and I am so grateful I did. I wish you all serenity courage, and wisdom.

charley0419

I don’t know answer but your at right place. Good luck everyday an adventure

harshedbuzz

@vludwig

The oral medications are intended to help a PWD function better, but they do nothing to slow the progression of the disease process in the brain. She might need 24/7 care in a year either way. Talk to her prescriber about stopping it and potential trialing something else if you're interested.

They do have an extensive list of potential side effects including GI upset, sleep issues, fatigue and decreased appetite. And it doesn't seem to work for a significant number of the people who trial it. I heard a neurologist say that it's only effective for about 20% of the dementia population.

The choice of a nursing home is made by family, not medication. If you have the desire and means to become a fulltime caregiver, that is an option. That said, a MCF could be an option. My aunt flourished in MC.

HB