Accuretic
Generic Name: Quinapril
What is Accuretic?
Accuretic is used to treat high blood pressure. It combines two medications, the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor quinapril and the diuretic hydrochlorothiazide. This medication is not used for the initial treatment of high blood pressure, but only when other medications are not sufficient.What is the most important information I should know about Accuretic?
If you develop swelling of your face (around the lips, tongue, or throat), swelling of your arms and legs, sore throat, or difficulty breathing or swallowing, stop taking the drug and contact your doctor immediately. You may need emergency treatment.You must take Accuretic regularly for it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may be several weeks before you get the full benefit of Accuretic, and you must continue taking it even if you are feeling well.
Blood pressure medications containing ACE inhibitors, such as Accuretic, have been shown to cause injury and even death of the developing baby when used during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. When pregnancy is confirmed, call your doctor right away for instructions on how to safely discontinue Accuretic.
Accuretic can cause a severe drop in blood pressure if you lose too much liquid through excessive sweating, severe diarrhea, or vomiting. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop one of these problems.
This drug may also cause kidney and liver problems. Call your doctor immediately if you experience any signs of yellowing of the skin or eyes, which can be a sign of liver injury.
Who should not take Accuretic?
Do not begin treatment with Accuretic if you are allergic to any of its ingredients, or have had a history of angioedema (swelling of the face, extremities, eyes, lips, tongue; diffeculty in swallowing or breathing). Also, do not use this medication if you have a sulfa allergy.What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Accuretic?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning therapy with Accuretic. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have diabetes, liver or kidney disease, are on dialysis, you have any autoimmune disorders (for example, lupus, scleroderma), heart disease, or if you have had a stroke.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Hypertension
Adults: The usual dosage range is 10-20 milligrams (mg) of quinapril and 12.5-25 mg of hydrochlorothiazide, taken once daily.
How should I take Accuretic?
Accuretic may be taken with or without meals. Take exactly as prescribed, and at the same time each day.What should I avoid while taking Accuretic?
Avoid drinking alcohol while being treated with Accuretic. This drug may cause dizziness when combined with alcohol.Avoid becoming dehydrated and drink adequate amounts of fluids while taking Accuretic. Otherwise, your blood pressure may drop too low.
What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Accuretic?
If Accuretic 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 Accuretic with barbiturates such as phenobarbital, cholestyramine, colestipol, corticosteroids, digoxin, diuretics, insulin, lithium, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, norepinephrine, other high blood pressure medications, painkillers, potassium-sparing diuretics, potassium supplements, salt substitutes containing potassium, and tetracycline.What are the possible side effects of Accuretic?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: back pain, chest pain, coughing, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, muscle aches, nausea, sleepiness or sleeplessness, sore throat, stomach pain, upset stomach, vomiting
Can I receive Accuretic if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The effects of Accuretic on pregnancy in the first trimester are unknown. During the second and third trimesters, Accuretic may cause severe harm to your unborn baby. Talk with your doctor before taking this drug if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.Caution should be exercised when Accuretic is administered to a nursing mother because the active ingredients are secreted in human milk.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Accuretic?
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. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Accuretic?
Store at room temperature.
I'm Beth Isaac, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
