Altace
Generic Name: Ramipril
What is Altace?
Altace is used to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and death from heart problems. This drug is also used alone or in combination with diuretics (water pills) to treat high blood pressure. It is also used to stabilize people after a heart attack by preventing heart failure.What is the most important information I should know about Altace?
Altace may be associated with an increased risk of birth defects and even death to the developing baby if taken during the second or third trimester.If you have any kidney problems, your doctor may need to monitor you while you are taking this medication for the first few weeks.
Stop taking Altace at once and contact your doctor immediately if the following occurs: your face, tongue, eyes, and lips swell up and you have difficulty breathing; you see yellowing of your eyes or skin (may be sign of liver problems); or you feel dizzy and lightheaded to the point that you feel you may fall down.
If you are dehydrated, sweat excessively, have severe diarrhea, or vomit, you may experience a serious drop in your blood pressure.
Altace may cause a significant increase in your potassium levels. Do not use a salt substitute without consulting with your doctor.
Who should not take Altace?
Do not begin treatment with Altace if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Altace?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Altace. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have kidney or liver problems, are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, are breastfeeding, or have a history of angioedema (swelling of the lips, tongue, eyes, and face).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.Blood Pressure
Adults: The usual dose without a diuretic is 2.5 milligrams (mg) once a day. The usual dosage range is 2.5-20 mg per day administered as a single dose or in two equally divided doses.
If you have kidney impairment, your doctor will adjust the dose appropriately.
Heart Attack, Stroke, and Related Complications
Adults: The initial dose is 2.5 mg once a day for 1 week, 5 mg once a day for the next 3 weeks, and then increased as tolerated, to a dose of 10 mg, once a day.
Heart Failure
Adults: The usual starting dose is 2.5 mg twice a day.
If you have kidney impairment, your doctor will adjust the dose appropriately.
How should I take Altace?
Altace capsules are usually swallowed whole. The capsule can also be opened and the contents sprinkled on a small amount of applesauce or mixed in water or apple juice.What should I avoid while taking Altace?
Avoid becoming pregnant while being treated with Altace.Also avoid becoming overheated and sweating excessively, as this can lead to dehydration and a subsequent quick drop in blood pressure. Drink plenty of fluids to remain hydrated if you engage in strenuous activity.
What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Altace?
If Altace 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 Altace with the following: potassium supplements, potassium salt substitutes, potassium-sparing diuretics, lithium, or injectable gold.What are the possible side effects of Altace?
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, diarrhea, dizziness, fainting, low blood pressure, nausea, vomiting, liver problems, swelling of the face, skin rash
Can I receive Altace if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
Do not begin treatment with Altace if you are pregnant or suspect pregnancy. This medication can cause severe birth defects or even death to your unborn child. If you become pregnant while taking Altace, stop immediately and contact your doctor. Altace may pass into your breast milk. .What should I do if I miss a dose of Altace?
If you forget to take 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. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Altace?
Store at room temperature.
I'm Beth Isaac, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
