CAPTOPRIL (CapotenŽ) is an antihypertensive (blood pressure lowering agent) known as an ACE inhibitor. Captopril controls high blood pressure (hypertension) by relaxing blood vessels; it is not a cure. High blood pressure levels can damage your kidneys, and may lead to a stroke or heart failure. Captopril also can help to treat heart failure (heart does not pump strongly enough) and certain kidney disorders
Captopril is an antihypertensive (blood pressure lowering agent) known as an ACE inhibitor. Captopril controls high blood pressure (hypertension) by relaxing blood vessels; it is not a cure. High blood pressure levels can damage your kidneys, and may lead to a stroke or heart failure. Captopril also can help to treat heart failure (heart does not pump strongly enough) and certain kidney disorders.
Alert your doctor if any of these apply to you:
autoimmune disease or collagen-vascular disease (such as lupus)
suppressed immune function
previous swelling of the tongue, face, or lips with difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, or tightening of the throat (angioedema)
bone marrow disease
heart or blood vessel disease
liver disease
low blood pressure
kidney disease
if you are on a special diet, such as a low-salt diet
an unusual or allergic reaction to captopril, other ACE inhibitors, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
How to use:
Strictly follow your doctor's instructions
Follow the directions on the prescription label
Take your doses at regular intervals
Do not stop taking Captopril until you are told so by your doctor
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can
Avoid taking double or extra doses
Safety issues:
Visit your doctor regularly for checks on your progress.
Captopril may cause dizzines or drowsiness. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or performing other tasks that require mental alertness until you know how Captopril affects you.
Tell your doctor if you are going to have surgery
Avoid salt substitutes or other foods or substances high in potassium salts
Do not treat yourself for pain, cough, or colds, without asking your doctor first
What drug(s) may interact with Captopril?
water pills
antacids
monoamine oxidase inhibitors
calcium salts
medicines to control heart rhythm
cocaine
medicines for high blood pressure
hawthorn
medicines for diabetes
medicines for colds and breathing difficulties
Possible side effects:
If you experience these side effects, you should contact your doctor immediately:
chest pain, uneven or fast heart beat, palpitations
decreased or increased amount of urine passed
difficulty breathing, or difficulty swallowing
dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting spells
fever or chills
numbness or tingling in your fingers or toes
skin rash, itching
swelling of your face, lips, or tongue
swelling of your legs or ankles
These side effects usually don't require medical attention (but you should contact your doctor if they continue or are bothersome):
cough
loss of taste
fatigue or tiredness
increased sensitivity to the sun
What is the shelf life of the pills?
The expiry date is mentioned on each blister. It is different for different batches. The shelf life is 2 years from the date of manufacture and would differ from batch to batch depending on when they were manufactured.
What is a generic pill?
Generic drug (pl. generic drugs, short: generics) is a drug which is produced and distributed without a brand name. A generic must contain the same active ingredients as the original formulation. In most cases, it is considered bioequivalent to the brand name counterpart with respect to pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties.