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Donepezil bradycardia — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateCNS TherapeuticsDonepezil bradycardiaGPhC CRA

A 79-year-old man taking donepezil for dementia reports fainting episodes. His pulse in the pharmacy is 48 bpm and he also takes bisoprolol. What is the most appropriate action?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: A — Refer for same-day clinical review because bradycardia may be medicine related

Donepezil can cause bradycardia and syncope, and beta-blockers may add to heart-rate lowering. A pulse of 48 bpm with fainting requires prompt assessment. Symptomatic bradycardia should not be managed with OTC dizziness medicines.

Reference: BNF