Aceon
Generic Name: Perindopril
What is Aceon?
Aceon, a medication known as an ACE inhibitor, is used to control high blood pressure. Aceon may be used alone or given with other blood pressure medications such as thiazide diuretics. Aceon is also used for people who have a heart condition called stable coronary artery disease, to lower the risk of developing a heart attack or death due to a cardiovascular event.What is the most important information I should know about Aceon?
When used in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, Aceon may cause severe harm or death to the fetus. Aceon should be discontinued as soon as possible if you become pregnant.A possible side effect of Aceon is angioedema. If you develop any symptoms suggesting angioedema (swelling of face, extremities, eyes, lips, tongue, hoarseness or difficulty in swallowing or breathing) stop taking Aceon and contact your doctor immediately.
Lightheadedness may occur, especially during the first few days of therapy. Tell your doctor if you experience this. If you faint while taking Aceon, stop taking it and contact your doctor. Inadequate fluid intake or excessive sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting can lead to a fall in blood pressure and lead to lightheadedness and fainting.
Do not use salt substitutes with potassium or potassium supplements without telling your doctor first.
Promptly report any signs of infection, such as a sore throat or fever. Aceon may lower your body's level of white blood cells that fight infections.
Aceon may cause yellowing of the skin or eyes, which may be a sign of liver dysfunction. Notify your doctor immediately if this happens.
Prior to any surgery and/or anesthesia, inform your physician that you are taking Aceon.
Who should not take Aceon?
Aceon should not be used in patients who are allergic to its ingredients or to ACE inhibitors. Aceon should not be used in patients who have a history of angioedema with ACE inhibitors.What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Aceon?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Aceon. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have diabetes, heart failure, kidney or liver disease, scleroderma, or systemic lupus erythematosus.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.Stable Coronary Artery Disease
Adults: The recommended initial dose is 4 milligrams (mg) once daily for 2 weeks, and then increased as tolerated, to a maintenance dose of 8 mg once daily. Elderly patients should start with 2 mg once daily in the first week, followed by 4 mg once daily in the second week, and 8 mg once daily as a maintenance dose, if tolerated.
High Blood Pressure
Adults: The recommended initial dose is 4 mg once a day. The dosage may be increased until blood pressure, when measured just before the next dose, is controlled or to a maximum of 16 mg per day. The usual maintenance dose range is 4-8 mg administered as a single daily dose or in 2 divided doses. In elderly patients, doses above 8 mg should be used with caution. If used with a diuretic, an initial Aceon dose of 2-4 mg daily should be used and then increased as described above.
Your doctor will prescribe the appropriate dosage for you if you have kidney problems.
How should I take Aceon?
You should take this medicine exactly as the doctor prescribed.What should I avoid while taking Aceon?
You should avoid inadequate fluid intake, excessive sweating, and potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium.What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Aceon?
If Aceon is taken with certain other drugs, the effect of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Aceon with the following: digoxin, diuretics, gentamicin, lithium, potassium supplements, or potassium-sparing diuretics such as spironolactone, amiloride, and triamterene.What are the possible side effects of Aceon?
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: cough, back pain, viral infection, sinusitis, upper extremity pain, indigestion, fever, ear infection, palpitation
Can I receive Aceon if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
Aceon should not be used during pregnancy. Taking Aceon during the second or third trimester of your pregnancy could cause serious harm or even death to your unborn baby. The effect of Aceon during breastfeeding is unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What should I do if I miss a dose of Aceon?
If you miss a dose of Aceon, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Aceon?
Store at room temperature and protect from moisture.
I'm Beth Isaac, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
