Monopril HCT

Generic name: Fosinopril sodium and hydrochlorothiazide

What is Monopril HCT?

Monopril HCT is a combination of two blood pressure-lowering medication classes known as ACE inhibitors and diuretics. ACE inhibitors stop a chemical in your blood called angiotensin I from becoming a more powerful chemical that raises your blood pressure by making your blood vessels narrower and causing your body to retain salt and water. Diuretics help remove excess fluids from your body.

What is the most important information I should know about Monopril HCT?

If taken during the second or third trimester of pregnancy, Monopril HCT can cause serious harm or even death to an unborn baby. If you become pregnant while taking Monopril HCT, you should stop taking Monopril HCT immediately and tell your doctor right away.

Monopril HCT should not be used as the initial blood pressure lowering therapy; it should be used after another blood pressure lowering medication has been tried.

Monopril HCT can cause a rare but serious allergic reaction leading to extreme swelling of the face, lips, tongue, throat, or gut (causing severe abdominal pain). If you experience any of these symptoms you should seek emergency medical attention right away.

Make sure your doctor knows if you have any type of liver impairment or injury. Monopril HCT may rarely cause a yellowing of the skin or eyes, which can be a sign of liver injury. If this occurs tell your doctor immediately.

Monopril HCT may cause lightheadedness or fainting, especially upon standing from a lying or sitting position. If you get any type of infection (sore throat/fever) while taking Monopril HCT you should promptly report it to your doctor. Monopril HCT may decrease your blood levels of infection fighting white blood cells, especially if you have systemic lupus erythematosus or kidney disease. If you have these diseases your doctor will most likely monitor you closely by taking regular blood samples.

Monopril HCT should be taken with caution in patients who have congestive heart failure or kidney disease.

Who should not take Monopril HCT?

You should not take Monopril HCT if you have had a previous allergic reaction or are sensitive to Monopril, any other ACE inhibitor, hydrochlorothiazide, any sulfonamide derived drugs, or any other ingredient in this medication.

You should also not take Monopril HCT if you are having problems urinating.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Monopril HCT?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Monopril HCT. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant, have congestive heart failure, liver or kidney disease, or if you have ever had an allergy or sensitivity to an ACE inhibitor such as Monopril or a diuretic such as hydrochlorothiazide.

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 initial dose is one 10/12.5 mg or 20/12.5 mg tablet taken once daily

How should I take Monopril HCT?

Monopril HCT can be taken with or without food and should be taken at the same time every day.

What should I avoid while taking Monopril HCT?

While taking Monopril HCT, avoid becoming pregnant or breastfeeding. In addition, maintain proper fluid intake and avoid dehydration. If dehydration occurs, lightheadedness and a feeling of faintness may occur.

It is also important that during therapy with Monopril HCT, potassium supplements and salt substitutes containing potassium are avoided unless otherwise directed by your physician. Avoid taking antacids and Monopril HCT simultaneously; separate taking an antacid and Monopril HCT by 2 hours.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Monopril HCT?

If Monopril HCT 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 Monopril HCT with the following: antacids; cholestyramine; colestipol resins; injectable gold; insulin, lithium; methenamine; nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs); norepinephrine; potassium-sparing diuretics such as spironolactone, amiloride and triamterene; potassium supplements; salt substitutes containing potassium; tubocurarine.

What are the possible side effects of Monopril HCT?

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: Dizziness, chest pain, cough, diarrhea, fatigue, headache, low blood pressure, muscle pain, nausea or vomiting, upper airway infection.

Can I receive Monopril HCT if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Monopril HCT should not be taken during pregnancy. Taking Monopril HCT while you are pregnant could cause serious harm or even death to your unborn baby. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Monopril HCT is excreted in breast milk, and should not be taken if you are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Monopril HCT?

If you miss a dose of Monopril HCT, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your normal dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose.

How should I store Monopril HCT?

Store Monopril HCT at room temperature in a tightly closed container and protect from moisture.