Vaseretic

 
What is Vaseretic and why is it prescribed?
Vaseretic is used in the treatment of high blood pressure. It combines an ACE inhibitor with a thiazide diuretic. Enalapril, the ACE inhibitor, 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. Enalapril also enhances blood flow throughout your blood vessels. Hydrochlorothiazide, a diuretic, prompts your body to produce and eliminate more urine, which helps in lowering blood pressure. You must take Vaseretic regularly for it to be effective. Vaseretic does not cure high blood pressure but it keeps it under control.

How should you take Vaseretic?
Follow your doctors directions for taking Vaseretic. If you miss a dose take it 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 take two doses at the same time. Keep the container tightly closed. Store Vaseretic at room temperature and protect from moisture.

Are there any Vaseretic side effects?
Vaseretic side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Vaseretic side effects may include cough, diarrhea, dizziness, drop in blood pressure upon standing up, fatigue, headache, impotence, low potassium levels (leading to symptoms such as dry mouth, excessive thirst, weak or irregular heartbeat, muscle pain or cramps), muscle cramps, nausea, rash, tingling or pins and needles, and weakness. Less common or rare Vaseretic side effects may include abdominal pain, abnormal dreams, abnormal skin sensations such as numbness, prickling, or burning, allergic reactions, arthritis, back pain, black stools, blisters, blood clots in lungs, blurred vision, bronchitis, chest pain, confusion, conjunctivitis, constipation, decrease in sex drive, depression, disturbances in heart rhythm, dry eyes, dry mouth, excessive sweating, fainting, fluid in lungs, flushing, gas, gout, heart attack, hepatitis, hives, hoarseness, inability to sleep, indigestion, inflammation of mouth and tongue, inflammation of the pancreas, itching, joint pain, kidney failure, liver failure, loss of appetite, loss of coordination, loss of hair, low blood pressure, muscle cramps, nervousness, rapid heartbeat, rash, Raynaud's phenomenon, restlessness, ringing in ears, runny nose, sensitivity to light, shortness of breath, sleepiness, sore throat, stroke, tearing, urinary tract infection, vomiting, and yellow eyes and skin.

What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Vaseretic?
If Vaseretic 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. Vaseretic may intensify the effects of alcohol. Do not drink alcohol while taking this medication. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Vaseretic with Alcohol, Barbiturates (such as phenobarbital), Certain other antihypertensives, Corticosteroids (such as prednisone), Digitalis (Lanoxin), Insulin, Lithium (Eskalith, Lithonate), Narcotics (Percocet), Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as Naprosyn, Advil, and Motrin), Norepinephrine, Oral antidiabetic drugs (such as Micronase), Potassium supplements (K-Lyte, K-Tab, others), Potassium-containing salt substitutes, or Potassium-sparing diuretics (such as Midamor).

Are there any special warnings about Vaseretic?
If you develop swelling of your face, eyes, lips, tongue, or throat; swelling of your arms and legs; or difficulty swallowing, you should contact your doctor immediately. You may need emergency treatment. If you are taking bee or wasp venom to prevent an allergic reaction to stings, you may have a severe allergic reaction to Vaseretic. If you develop chest pain, a sore throat, or fever you should contact your doctor immediately. It could indicate a more serious illness. If you are taking Vaseretic, a complete assessment of your kidney function should be done. Kidney function should continue to be monitored. Some people on dialysis have had a severe allergic reaction to Vaseretic. If you have liver disease or lupus erythematosus, Vaseretic should be used with caution. If your skin or the whites of your eyes turn yellow, stop taking Vaseretic and notify your doctor at once. If you have severe congestive heart failure, you should be carefully watched for low blood pressure. Excessive sweating, dehydration, severe diarrhea, or vomiting could cause you to lose too much water and cause your blood pressure to become too low. Be careful when exercising and in hot weather. Vaseretic can cause some people to become drowsy or less alert. If you are diabetic, blood sugar levels should be monitored. Vaseretic may increase your sensitivity to sunlight. Be careful to avoid overexposure.
 

Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor.

 

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