Prescription Required
Description
Accupril, generically known as Quinapril, is an angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) which is used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, and to prevent diabetic kidney disease. It is used in combination with other medications. Some symptoms of these conditions include but are not limited to; severe headaches, chest pains, blood in the urine, more or less frequently having to urinate, breathing difficulties, and blurry vision. This tablet is available in 5MG, 10MG, 20MG, and 40MG. Depending on your condition, your dosages will vary. It is likely that your doctor will start you off on a small dose and gradually increase the amount over time; this is done to help minimize any side effects. Using aspirin, ibuprofen and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can cause a decrease in effectiveness. In some cases, accupril is taken when thiazide diuretics (pills used to help increase urine flow, which act on the kidneys) has not satisfactorily controlled the blood pressure.
Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) lowers blood pressure and decreases the chance of strokes and heart attacks. It elevates blood pressure by narrowing the arteries, this happens once ACE creates and releases a hormone called Angiotensin. These hormones contract muscles in the arteries, including your heart, which result in lower blood pressure and increased oxygen and blood flow. ACE in the kidneys does the same to help relieve filtration pressure.
Directions
Follow directions given by your doctor as your dosages may be different than the typical amount.
Swallow the tablet, do NOT chew. Drink with water. Store in room temperature.
It is typically recommended that you take accupril on an empty stomach as food can cause ineffectiveness, however some doctors will give the okay to eat it with low fat foods.
Make sure your blood pressure has been checked recently. Your blood pressure will have an effect on your dosage. It is a good idea to also have liver and kidney functions tested as well.
If you believe you are feeling better and no longer need to take accupril, do NOT stop taking it. Make an appointment with your doctor and he can help decide if you no longer need it.
Do not double your dosages if a dosage is missed.
HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE
Start with a smaller dosage of 5mg – 20mg. Take this dosage once a day
Following dosages should be of 10mg – 80 mg. Dosages can be taken all at once, or twice throughout the day (12 hour intervals)
GERIATRIC (for elderly) - HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE
Take 10mg once a day
HEART FAILURE
Start with a smaller dosage of 5mg. Take this dosage every 12 hours
Following dosage should be of 20mg – 40mg. Dosages can be taken all at once, or twice throughout the day (12 hour intervals)
GERIATRIC (for elderly) – HEART FAILURE
Take 10mg once a day.
Cautions
Accupril is harmful to developing fetuses. If you are pregnant and taking accupril, discontinue immediately. If breastfeeding, accupril should be used with caution.
Accupril, in very rare cases, can cause liver failure and angioedema. Tell your doctor if you experience vomiting that does not go away, yellow skin and/or eyes, loss of appetite, painful urination, infrequent or no urination, increased speed of heart beat, or tingling like sensations in your hands or feet.
Dizziness is a side effect of accupril and if mixed with mind alternating drugs, can get quite severe. Do not drive if you feel this way. Talk to your doctor if you use cannabis and limit alcoholic beverages while using accupril.
Be aware if you are taking potassium supplements, by taking accupril you risk a higher potassium level. This could lead to a condition called hyperkalemia (excessively high potassium levels).
If you show signs of hives, intense stomach pain, or difficulty breathing, contact your doctor immediately as these could be signs of an allergic reaction. Some other signs may include swelling of your face and inner mouth.
Accupril could cause your blood pressure to drop too low if you are also on diuretics. You can either increase salt intake before starting accupril or discontinue the diuretics to avoid this from happening. This can also occur in people who are dehydrated and or have low blood sodium.
Vomiting, sweating and diarrhea are all possible side effects and if they are excessive, you could end up becoming dehydrated. This increases risk of lightheadedness as well as lower blood pressure as mentioned above.
Do not take accupril with aliskiren (Tekturna) as it could also cause low blood pressure, as well as increased blood potassium and damage to the kidneys..
Side Effects
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Coughing
- Back pain
- Joint pain
- Swollen joints
- Rash
- Difficulty with moving
- Sore, stiff, aching or cramping muscles
Please note seniors may be more sensitive to side effects
FAQs
What is Accupril?
By lowering the blood pressure you can prevent strokes, heart attacks and kidney problems. So what is quinapril used for? This medication is used to treat High Blood Pressure. And at times Accupril is also used to treat heart failure. When taken, this medication goes to work by relaxing the blood vessels so the blood may flow at an easier pace. This medication comes in four different strengths which are 5mg, 10mg, 20mg, and 40mg. If you have any questions regarding this medication or any inquiries in general, feel free to give us a call at our toll free number 1-877-385-8998.
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