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Accupril |
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What is Accupril and why is it prescribed? Accupril is used in the treatment of high blood pressure. It can be taken alone or in combination with a thiazide type of water pill. Accupril is in a family of drugs known as "ACE inhibitors." It works by preventing a chemical in your blood called angiotensin I from converting into a more potent form that increases salt and water retention in your body. Accupril also enhances blood flow throughout your blood vessels. Along with other drugs, Accupril is also prescribed in the treatment of congestive heart failure. You must take Accupril regularly for it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may be several weeks before you get the full benefit of Accupril. You must continue taking Accupril even if you are feeling well. Accupril does not cure high blood pressure but it keeps it under control. How should you take Accupril? Follow your doctors directions for taking Accupril. You can take Accupril with or without meals. Alcohol may increase the effect of Accupril, and could cause dizziness or fainting. Avoid alcoholic beverages until you have checked with your doctor. See your doctor regularly to make sure Accupril is working properly without unwanted side effects. Do not stop taking Accupril without first consulting your doctor. If you miss a dose take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never try to catch up by doubling the dose. Accupril can be stored at room temperature. Be sure to protect Accupril from light. Are there any Accupril side effects? Accupril side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Accupril side effects may include dizziness and headache. Less common side effects may include abdominal pain, coughing, fatigue, nausea, and vomiting. Rare Accupril side effects may include angina, back pain, bleeding in the stomach or intestines, bronchitis, changes in heart rhythm, constipation, depression, diarrhea, dimmed vision, dizziness when first standing up, dry mouth or throat, extremely high blood pressure, fainting, fluid accumulation and swelling, gas, hair loss, heart attack, heart failure, hepatitis, high potassium, impotence, increased blood pressure, increased sweating, indigestion, inflammation of the pancreas, inflammation of the sinuses, insomnia, itching, kidney failure, joint pain, low blood pressure, muscle pain, nervousness, numbness/tingling, palpitations, rapid heartbeat, rash, sensitivity to light, severe allergic reactions, skin peeling, sleepiness, sore throat, stroke, swelling of the mouth and throat, urinary tract infection, vague feeling of illness, and vertigo. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Accupril? If Accupril is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Accupril with Diuretics (such as Lasix), Lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid), Magnesium, Potassium-sparing diuretics (such as Aldactone, Dyazide, and Moduretic), Potassium supplements (such as Slow-K and K-Dur), Salt substitutes containing potassium, or Tetracycline (Sumycin). Are there any special warnings about Accupril? If you develop swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or of your arms and legs, or have difficulty swallowing or breathing, you should contact your doctor immediately. You may need emergency treatment. You may feel light-headed, especially during the first few days of Accupril therapy. If this occurs, notify your doctor. If you actually faint, stop taking the medication until you have consulted with your doctor. Vomiting, diarrhea, and heavy perspiration can all deplete your body fluid and dehydration can cause your blood pressure to drop. If this leads to light-headedness or fainting, you should check with your doctor. Inform your doctor or dentist that you are taking Accupril before undergoing surgery or anesthesia. Do not use potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium without consulting your doctor. If you develop a sore throat, fever, or any other sign of infection, contact your doctor immediately. It could indicate a more serious illness. If you are taking Accupril, your doctor will do a complete assessment of your kidney function and will watch it closely as long as you are taking this drug. If you notice a yellow tinge to your skin and the whites of your eyes, stop taking the drug and notify your doctor immediately. This could be a sign of liver damage. |
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Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor. |
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