During the use of donepezil transdermal patches, special attention should be paid to gastrointestinal discomfort, skin tolerance, and sleep related behavioral changes. The following are the core management points extracted from clinical practice to help you safely use medication.

1、 Gastrointestinal reactions (nausea, decreased appetite)

Adjustment of application time: If nausea is obvious, you can try changing the application time from morning to bedtime (2 hours after dinner), so that the drug peak covers the nighttime rest period.

Dietary coordination: Avoid greasy and spicy foods on the day of application; Choose light liquid (Congee, lotus root starch), and eat less and eat more (5-6 small meals a day).

Antiemetic preparation: Consult with a doctor about the need for backup oral antiemetic drugs (such as ondansetron), only to be taken as needed in severe discomfort.

Weight monitoring: Weigh in the morning on a fixed day every week. If the weight drops by more than 2% within 2 weeks, inform the doctor promptly.

2、 Local skin reactions (erythema, desquamation)

Rotation and Cleaning: Strictly follow a 7-day rotation of the upper arm, back, and chest area. After removing the old patch, clean the remaining adhesive residue with warm water and neutral soap, and gently pat dry.

Topical ointment: If mild dryness and flaking occur, apply a moisturizing cream containing ceramide to non application areas; When the erythema is obvious, external use of weak acting glucocorticoids (such as hydrocortisone cream) requires the consent of a doctor.

Discontinuation indication: If blisters, erosions, or diffuse rashes appear, immediately remove them and contact a doctor. Do not reapply on your own.

3、 Abnormal sleep behavior (sleepwalking, nighttime restlessness)

Environmental safety: Remove sharp furniture corners from the bedroom and install bed rails or floor mats; Lock doors and windows before bedtime to prevent unconscious outings.

Daily routine: Set a fixed bedtime and wake-up time, increase light physical activity during the day (such as walking for 20 minutes), but avoid exercise 3 hours before bedtime.

Family observation: Caregivers need to continuously record nighttime behavior (whether they wake up, speech content), and submit logs for evaluation during follow-up visits.

4、 Comprehensive safety reminder

In the early stages of treatment (first 2 weeks), it is recommended that family members accompany them to sleep at night and closely observe any abnormal movements.

If any of the nausea, skin or sleep problems continue to worsen, early follow-up should be arranged. Do not stop or reduce the dosage on your own, and a step-by-step adjustment plan should be developed by a doctor.