Common use
Antihypertensive drug (decreasing blood pressure) belongs to a class of drugs called angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. Suppressing the synthesis of angiotensin II, it diminishes its vasoconstrictor activity (blood vessel narrowing) and its stimulating influence on secretion (excretion) of aldosterone. The medication facilitates the activity of renin in blood plasma and inhibits the metabolism (destruction in the organism) of bradykinin. This medication also decreases the total resistance of the peripheral blood vessel system. Treatment with ACE inhibitors is particularly beneficial to people with congestive heart failure. The drug is also administered in hypertension, congestive heart failure, and prophylaxis of sudden death after myocardial infarction.
Dosage and direction
The usual dose of Altace is 2.5-20 mg a day as a single dose or two divided doses taken in the morning with a glass of water. Patients taking diuretics or those with renal artery stenosis may require lower doses, as well as people whose age exceeds 65 years.
Precautions
Alcohol may lower your blood pressure and, in this way, it increases some of the side effects of Altace. Do not use salt substitutes or potassium supplements while taking this medication. In all cases, first consult your doctor before taking this drug.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity, stenosis of the kidney artery, condition after kidney transplantation, aortic constriction, non-inflammatory heart diseases of uncertain or disputable origin leading to its enlargement, pregnancy, breastfeeding, severe kidney disorders, liver failure. Infants who are younger than 14 years old. For drivers and other employees whose work requires high concentration of attention, this medication should be used carefully.
Possible side effect
Kidney failure and increased levels of potassium in the blood, hypotension, collapse, and heart arrhythmia are serious side effects of Altace. Altace is generally well tolerated, and side effects are transient. Persistent dry cough, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, rash, dizziness, fatigue, headache, loss of taste, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, fainting, and numbness or tingling in the hands or feet have been reported.
Drug interaction
The use of ACE inhibitors with potassium supplements, salt substitutes, or diuretics that increase potassium in the blood can cause excessive potassium levels. Concomitant use of ACE inhibitors with these drugs requires monitoring of potassium levels. Aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may reduce the effects of ACE inhibitors.
Missed dose
Never take a double dose of this medication. If it is almost time for the next dose, just skip the missed portion and continue to take the medicine according to the schedule.
Overdose
Symptoms of an Altace overdose include extreme dizziness or fainting. If you experience these symptoms, call your doctor immediately.
Storage
Tablets and capsules should be stored at room temperature 15-30°C (59-86°F).
Disclaimer
We provide only general information about medications, which does not cover all directions, possible drug interactions, or precautions. Information on the site cannot be used for self-treatment and self-diagnosis. Any specific instructions for a particular patient should be agreed upon with your healthcare adviser or doctor in charge of the case. We disclaim the reliability of this information and any mistakes it may contain. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, special, or other indirect damage as a result of any use of the information on this site and also for the consequences of self-treatment.