Tacrine

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Information about Tacrine[edit source]

Tacrine is an oral acetylcholinesterase inhibitor previously used for therapy of Alzheimer disease.


Liver safety of Tacrine[edit source]

Tacrine therapy is associated with a very high rate of serum aminotransferase elevations during therapy and has been linked to several instances of clinically apparent, acute liver injury.

Mechanism of action of Tacrine[edit source]

Tacrine (tak' reen) was the first acetylcholinesterase inhibitor introduced into clinical use for management of Alzheimer disease. Tacrine acts by inhibiting the metabolism of acetylcholine and thus prolonging its activity and raising levels in the cerebral cortex. Therapy with tacrine improves mental functioning in patients with mild-to-moderate dementia of Alzheimer disease.

FDA approval information for Tacrine[edit source]

Tacrine was approved for use in the United States in 1993 as therapy of mild-to-moderate dementia of the Alzheimer type.

Dosage and administration for Tacrine[edit source]

Tacrine was marketed in capsules of 10, 20, 30 and 40 mg under the brand name Cognex with the typical dose being 20 to 40 mg four times daily.

Side effects of Tacrine[edit source]

Tacrine has dose limiting side effects including diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort, dizziness, headache, anxiety, blurred vision, dry mouth and insomnia, symptoms typical of cholinergic stimulation. Because of continuing concerns over safety and availability of other acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, tacrine was withdrawn from use in 2013.


The agents used to treat Alzheimer disease include:

Tacrine Resources

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD