Tacrine
Tacrine is a cholinesterase inhibitor that was one of the first medications approved for the treatment of mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease. It works by increasing acetylcholine levels in the brain, a neurotransmitter important for memory and learning, potentially slowing cognitive decline in some patients.
Tacrine is an older Alzheimer's medication that increases brain acetylcholine levels but has largely been replaced due to safety concerns.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N06DA01
- RxNorm
- 10318
- Generic
- Tacrine
- Class
- atc-n06
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- capsule
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Primarily used for the symptomatic treatment of mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease, though it has been largely superseded by newer cholinesterase inhibitors due to its side effect profile.
As a reversible acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, tacrine prevents the breakdown of acetylcholine in the brain, thereby increasing its concentration and enhancing cholinergic transmission between neurons.
Requires regular liver function monitoring due to potential hepatotoxicity. Has significant gastrointestinal side effects including nausea and vomiting. Has been largely discontinued in clinical practice in favor of newer, safer cholinesterase inhibitors.
Official drug label
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This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy