What condition is treated using the medication donepezil?

Donepezil is primarily used to treat Alzheimer's disease, a progressive neurological disorder characterized by memory loss, cognitive decline, and changes in behavior. Donepezil works as a cholinesterase inhibitor, which means it helps increase the levels of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter associated with memory and learning, by inhibiting the enzyme that breaks it down. This can lead to improved cognitive function and a temporary slowing of symptoms in individuals with Alzheimer's.

Other conditions listed, such as Parkinson's disease, depression, and multiple sclerosis, are not treated with donepezil. While Parkinson's disease may involve cognitive impairment, it is primarily managed with different medications that target motor symptoms. Depression is typically treated with antidepressants, such as SSRIs or SNRIs, rather than with donepezil. Multiple sclerosis treatment focuses on immunomodulatory therapies, and donepezil does not play a role in the management of that disease. Thus, donepezil's specific action on cholinergic pathways makes it uniquely suited for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.