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Tacrine (TAK-reen) is used to treat the symptoms of mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease. Tacrine will not cure Alzheimer's disease, and it will not stop the disease from getting worse. However, Tacrine can improve thinking ability in some patients with Alzheimer's disease. In Alzheimer's disease, many chemical changes take place in the brain. One of the earliest and biggest changes is that there is less of a chemical messenger called acetylcholine (ACh). ACh helps the brain to work properly. Tacrine slows the breakdown of ACh, so it can build up and have a greater effect. However, as Alzheimer's disease gets worse, there will be less and less ACh, so Tacrine may not work as well. Tacrine may cause liver problems. While taking this medicine, you must have blood tests regularly to see if the medicine is affecting your liver. Tacrine is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage form: Oral Capsules (U.S.)
Tacrine is used to treat the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, but it does not cure the disease. Tacrine is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Tacrine comes as a capsule to take by mouth. It usually is taken four times a day. Take Tacrine on an empty stomach (1 hour before or 2 hours after meals). Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Tacrine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Continue to take Tacrine even if you feel well. Do not stop taking Tacrine without talking to your doctor, especially if you have taken large doses for a long time. Your doctor probably will decrease your dose gradually. This drug must be taken regularly for a few weeks before its full effect is felt. Brand names: - Cognex - Tacrine |