Brand name:
Quinapril
Generic name: Accupril
Why should Quinapril not be prescribed?
If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Quinapril
or similar drugs, such as Capoten and Vasotec, you should not take Quinapril.
Make sure your doctor is aware of any drug reactions you have experienced.
Special warnings about Quinapril
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.
If you develop abdominal pain with or without nausea and vomiting, contact
your doctor. ACE inhibitors such as Quinapril have been known to cause
intestinal swelling.You may feel light-headed, especially during the
first few days of Quinapril therapy. If this occurs, notify your doctor.
If you actually faint, stop taking Quinapril 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 Quinapril before undergoing
surgery or anesthesia.
Do not use potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium
without consulting your Local 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 Quinapril, your doctor will do a complete assessment
of your kidney function and will watch it closely as long as you are
taking Quinapril.
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.
The safety and effectiveness of Quinapril in children have not been
established.
Why is Quinapril prescribed?
Quinapril is used in the treatment of high blood pressure. It can be
taken alone or in combination with a thiazide type of water pill such
as HydroDIURIL. Quinapril 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. Quinapril also enhances blood
flow throughout your blood vessels. Along with other drugs, Quinapril
is also prescribed in the treatment of congestive heart failure.
Most important fact about Quinapril
You must take Quinapril regularly for it to be effective. Since blood
pressure declines gradually, it may be several weeks before you get
the full benefit of Quinapril; and you must continue taking it even
if you are feeling well. Quinapril does not cure high blood pressure;
it merely keeps it under control.
How should you take Quinapril?
You can take Quinapril with or without meals.
Alcohol may increase the effect of Quinapril, and could cause dizziness
or fainting. Avoid alcoholic beverages until you have checked with
your doctor.Take Quinapril exactly as prescribed, and see your doctor
regularly to make sure the drug is working properly without unwanted
side effects.
Do not stop taking Quinapril without first consulting your doctor.
If you miss a dose...
Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. However, 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.
Special Storage instructions...
Quinapril can be stored at room temperature. Protect from light.
Quinapril side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity,
inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine
if it is safe for you to continue taking Quinapril.
* Side effects may include:
Dizziness, headache etc.,
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Quinapril
If Quinapril is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either
could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important
to check with your doctor before combining Quinapril with the following:
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
Tetracycline (Sumycin)
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
ACE inhibitors such as Quinapril have been shown to cause injury and
even death to the unborn child when used in pregnancy during the second
and third trimesters. If you are pregnant, your doctor should discontinue
Quinapril as soon as possible. If you plan to become pregnant, make
sure your doctor knows you are taking Quinapril. Quinapril appears in
breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If Quinapril is essential
to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding
until your treatment is finished.
Recommended dosage for Quinapril
HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you
suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
A severe drop in blood pressure is the primary sign of an Quinapril
overdose.
