December 22, 2009 | Health & Medicine

Generic Aricept Approved to Treat Alzheimers-Related Dementia

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the first generic version of Aricept (donepezil hydrochloride) orally disintegrating tablets on Dec. 11. Aricept is used to treat dementia related to Alzheimer’s disease.

Aricept tablets disappear rapidly on the tongue, making it easier for elderly or disabled patients to take them. The generic versions, available in 5 milligram and 10 milligram strengths, are produced by Philadelphia-based Mutual Pharmaceuticals.

“Generics offer greater access to health care for all Americans,” said Gary Buehler, director of the FDA’s Office of Generic Drugs. “Health care professionals and consumers can be assured that FDA-approved generic drugs have met the same rigorous standards as the brand-name drug and are the same as the branded dosage form, safety, strength, route of administration, quality, performance characteristics and intended use.”

Alzheimer’s is a progressive brain disease that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills. Symptoms appear after the age of 60 for many Alzheimer’s patients.

AUTHOR: Annette Hulbert