What type of medication is donepezil?

Donepezil is classified as a cholinesterase inhibitor, which is a type of medication primarily used to treat symptoms of Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia. The mechanism of action involves the inhibition of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, which breaks down acetylcholine in the brain. By preventing this breakdown, donepezil increases the level of acetylcholine available for communication between nerve cells.

This enhancement of cholinergic transmission can lead to temporary improvements in cognitive function, memory, and overall daily functioning in patients suffering from Alzheimer's. Such drugs are essential in managing the cognitive symptoms of the disease, although they do not stop or slow down the disease's progression.

Overall, donepezil is specifically designed to address the cholinergic deficits associated with Alzheimer's disease, making it distinctly different from antidepressants, antipsychotics, and stimulants, which serve other treatment purposes within psychiatric and neurological contexts.