Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 13, 2026

Development of a Virtual Reality Assessment of Everyday Living Skills
Published on: April 23, 2014
No effect of donepezil on neurocognition and social cognition in young persons with stable schizophrenia
Christian G Kohler1, Elizabeth A Martin, Evan Kujawski
1Schizophrenia Research Center, Neuropsychiatry Section, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA. kohler@bbl.med.upenn.edu
Introduction:
Cognitive dysfunction is common in schizophrenia and linked with psychosocial dysfunction. We examined the possible effect of a 16-week trial of donepezil on cognition in young persons with stable schizophrenia.
Method:
Twenty-six outpatients who met criteria for age, duration of illness, clinical stability, and medications were randomly assigned to 16-week treatment with donepezil or placebo using a double blind design. At beginning and conclusion of the trial, participants completed standardised computerised assessment of neurocognition and social cognition. Symptomatology and functioning were assessed using standard rating scales for negative and positive symptoms, depression and mania, and quality of life.
Results:
No treatment effects were found on any cognitive functions or clinical symptoms in placebo or donepezil groups.
Conclusion:
Similar to other studies using acetylcholinesterase inhibitors in more heterogeneous and symptomatic groups of patients with schizophrenia, donepezil does not appear to enhance cognitive abilities. Persistent cognitive impairment in schizophrenia with pervasive effects on psychosocial functioning and outcome, urge the search for agents that may offer improvement.
Related Concept Videos
Pharmacodynamics in Geriatric Patients: Effects of Age
Alzheimer's Disease: Treatment
Effect of Hepatic Disease on Pharmacokinetics: Dose Adjustments Due to Hepatic Impairment
Negative and Cognitive Symptoms of Schizophrenia
Negative Symptoms
Negative symptoms of schizophrenia manifest as deficits in normal emotional and behavioral functioning, profoundly impacting daily life. Individuals with schizophrenia often display a flat affect, characterized by a near-total absence of emotional expression,...
Cognitive Enhancers: Cholinesterase Inhibitors and NMDA Receptor Antagonists
Pharmacokinetics in Geriatric Patients: Effect of Age on Drug Metabolism