- Used to treat the dementia symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease
Cognex is the brand name for the generic drug Tacrine and it is manufactured by Shionogi Pharma. It is sold in capsules that contain 10 mg, 20 mg and 40 mg of the drug.
Indication
This drug is indicated in Alzheimer’s disease to treat mild to moderate dementia. It is sometimes used to treat other cognitive impaired conditions as well.
Action
This drug is an anticholinesterase and it acts on the acetylcholine in the brain, preventing it from breaking down. A lack of this chemical negatively impacts the thinking, remembering and the reasoning abilities of the brain. This drug improves the nerve function of the brain because it acts as a cholinesterase inhibitor. Studies done on the action of this drug have found a beneficial effect on the cognitive functions.
Side Effects
This is an older cholinesterase inhibitor and unlike the newer ones, the side effects could be a bit more severe. However, while some side effects are not so dangerous, others could be. The patient could experience nausea, vomiting, low blood pressure, excess saliva, an upset stomach, a lot of perspiration and in certain extreme cases, there could be convulsions, urine incontinence and the patient might even collapse. There could be weight loss, irritability, tiredness, muscular aches, weakness, rashes on the skin, bloody stools, hallucinations and even seizures. It is important for the patient’s care-giver or family to be in touch with the doctor just in case the side effects take a dangerous turn.
Caution
The doctor will need to be given a full medical history of the patient. This should include any diseases in the past, what medication was given, any current ailments and what is being given. You will also have to state what vitamins and supplements are being given, even if they are natural or herbal. This drug could react with a number of other medications and it is better to be safe by making out a complete list. If the patient was allergic to any medication or any food, this has to be stated too. The doctor will also want to know about any tobacco, drug or alcohol use, in the past or in the present. You need to be very clear about all the patient’s conditions, especially diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiac, liver or kidney problems, stomach ulcers, prostrate problems, epilepsy or seizures. As regards most of the not so dangerous side effects, they tend to disappear in a week or so but in the more dangerous ones, if medical aid is not sought immediately, it could be a danger to the person’s life.
Contraindications
This drug should be avoided by people who have any of the conditions given above and if they need to be put on this medication, they should follow the doctor’s advice absolutely. If you do develop any liver complaint while taking this medicine, then the doctor will stop it. Do not change dosages or stop it suddenly without consulting your doctor.