Pharma & Specialty Chemical Standards

Donepezil, a piperidine-based acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, is chemically known as (3R,5S)-5-(2-pyridinylmethyl)-3-(1-piperidinyl)pyrrolidin-2-one (C17H21N3O; molecular weight 283.37 g/mol). Its structure features a pyrrolidinone core fused to a piperidine ring and substituted with a pyridine moiety. This compound exhibits a melting point of 130–135°C and limited water solubility. Clinically, it is employed in Alzheimer’s disease management by reversibly inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, thereby elevating cerebral acetylcholine concentrations. The molecule’s lipophilicity facilitates blood-brain barrier permeation, enhancing its central nervous system efficacy.