Hospitalization for Malignant Arrhythmias Following Initiation of Donepezil: A Retrospective Cohort Study - Takeaways - MDSpire
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Incidence of Malignant Arrhythmias Requiring Hospitalization After Starting Donepezil: A Retrospective Cohort Analysis

  • By

  • Yichang Huang

  • John-Michael Gamble

  • David N. Juurlink

  • Mhd. Wasem Alsabbagh

  • July 1, 2026

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  • 1

    Donepezil is the most widely used acetylcholinesterase inhibitor for Alzheimer's disease in Canada, reflecting its earlier marketing and lower cost.

  • 2

    Adverse effects of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness, and potentially serious arrhythmias.

  • 3

    Donepezil may pose a greater risk of acquired long-QT syndrome and malignant arrhythmias compared to other acetylcholinesterase inhibitors.

  • 4

    The study utilized linked healthcare databases to analyze hospitalization rates for malignant arrhythmias among patients aged 66 and over.

  • 5

    The primary outcome of the study was hospitalization for malignant arrhythmia, specifically ventricular tachycardia.

Original Source(s)

Hospitalization for Malignant Arrhythmias Following Initiation of Donepezil: A Retrospective Cohort Study

  • by Yichang Huang, John-Michael Gamble, David N. Juurlink, Mhd. Wasem Alsabbagh

  • July 1, 2026

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