Questions to Ask About Neurological System Related

Review Questions to Ask About Neurological System related questions and content

At a visit to the provider's office, an older adult patient's partner reports that the patient has nausea, diarrhea, and a loss of appetite. He has a history of Alzheimer's disease and is taking donepezil (Aricept). The provider should advise which of the following?

  • A. Take the drug with food.
  • B. Stop taking the drug right away.
  • C. Take a reduced dosage of the drug.
  • D. Undergo liver function tests right away.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Cholinesterase inhibitors such as donepezil commonly cause nausea, vomiting, anorexia, and other gastrointestinal symptoms. This is due to the increase of acetylcholine in all parts of the body, and its subsequent effect on the gastrointestinal tract and other systems of the body. The provider should explain to the patient and his caregiver that taking the drug with food and at bedtime will help minimize uncomfortable gastrointestinal effects. The provider also should instruct the partner to report vomiting, severe diarrhea, weight loss, or signs of gastrointestinal bleeding, such as dark stools or coffee-ground emesis, especially if the patient is also taking a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug. At this point, it is not necessary to stop taking the drug, reduce the dosage, or undergo liver function tests.