Cognex (Tacrine) Drug Overview and Uses for Patients and Caregivers at RxList

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May 26, 2012

Cognex

Alzheimer's Disease »

What is dementia?

Dementia is a syndrome characterized by:

impairment in memory,

impairment in another area of thinking such as the ability to organize thoughts and reason, the ability to use language, or the ability to see accurately the visual world (not because of eye disease), and

these impairments are severe enough to cause a decline in the patient's usual level of functioning.

Although some kinds of memory loss are normal parts of aging, the changes due to aging are not severe enough to interfere with the level of function. Many different diseases can cause dementia, but Alzheimer's disease is by far the most common cause for dementia in the United States and in most countries in the world.

What is Alzheimer's disease?

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a slowly progressive disease of the brain that is characterized by impairment of memory and eventually by dist...

Read the Alzheimer's Disease article »

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Cognex

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Cognex Consumer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

TACRINE - ORAL

(TAK-reen)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Cognex

USES: This medication is used to treat mild to moderate confusion (dementia) due to Alzheimer's disease. Tacrine does not cure Alzheimer's disease, but it may improve memory, awareness, and the ability to take part in everyday life. This medication is called an enzyme blocker. Tacrine works by restoring the balance of certain natural substances (neurotransmitters) in the brain.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth on an empty stomach (at least one hour before meals), usually four times daily or as directed by your doctor. If stomach upset occurs, you may take this medication with food, though less of the medication will be absorbed. For this reason, it is best to take it without food. Your doctor will gradually increase your dose to reduce the risk of side effects. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Dosage is based on your medical condition, liver function test results, and response to therapy.

Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. It may take up to 3-6 months to get the full benefit of this drug.

Do not stop taking this medication or change your dose without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped or the dose is rapidly decreased. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.

Inform your doctor if your condition worsens.