Cognex
® (
tacrine hydrochloride) is a prescription medication approved to treat mild to moderate
Alzheimer's disease. Although the medication is not a cure for
Alzheimer's disease, it can help slow down the worsening of
Alzheimer's symptoms (and may even temporarily improve such symptoms).
Cognex is made by Sciele Pharma, Inc.
Cognex is classified as an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor. It works by preventing a specific enzyme (known as acetylcholinesterase) from breaking down acetylcholine in the brain. Acetylcholine is a chemical that aids in many brain functions, including memory, attention, reason, and language. Problems with inadequate acetylcholine in the brain may be responsible for some of the
symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.
Cognex has been evaluated for Alzheimer's disease in several different studies. These studies showed that people taking the drug often had a slower rate of decline in cognitive function ("thinking" functions, such as memory, language, and social interaction), compared to people taking a placebo (a "sugar pill" with no active ingredients). In general, a slight improvement was initially seen, followed by a return to a decline in cognitive function, although this decline was slower in those taking Cognex, compared to those taking a placebo.
General considerations for when and how to take Cognex include the following:
- The medication comes in capsule form. It is usually taken by mouth four times daily.
- It is best to take Cognex on an empty stomach (between meals), since food can decrease the absorption of the drug into the body. However, if the drug bothers your stomach, talk with your healthcare provider about taking it with food (which may help with stomach upset).
- Be sure to take your dosages at the same times each day to maintain an even level in your blood.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Cognex will not work if you stop taking it.
The dose of Cognex your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- Whether you develop high liver enzymes due to the drug
- Other medications you may take
- Other medical conditions you may have.
As is always the case, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
As with any medicine, side effects are possible with Cognex. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, many people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, they are often minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider.
Common side effects include but are not limited to:
- High liver enzymes
- Nausea, with or without vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness.
(Click Cognex Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking Cognex if you have:
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Take an Overdose?
People who take too much Cognex may have overdose symptoms that could include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Increased salivation
- Slow heart rate (bradycardia)
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Seizures
- Muscle weakness, including life-threatening weakness of the muscles used for breathing
- Loss of life.
If you happen to take an overdose, seek immediate medical attention.
How Should Cognex Be Stored?
Cognex capsules should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep this and all other medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you forget to take a dose of Cognex, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, simply skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Cognex capsules are available in the following strengths:
- Cognex 10 mg
- Cognex 20 mg
- Cognex 30 mg
- Cognex 40 mg.
At this time, Cognex is not available in generic form
(see Generic Cognex).
