Why is this medication prescribed?  

Tacrine is used to treat the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, but it does not cure the disease.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used?  

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.

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?     

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

In case of emergency/overdose     

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

What other information should I know?     

Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your response to tacrine.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.

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