ACE Inhibitors

Other Names: Brand Names

Captopril  (Capoten)
Lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril)
Cilazapril (Inhibace)
Perindopril (Coversyl)
Benazepril (Lotensin)
Quinapril (Accupril)
Enalapril (Vasotec)
Ramipril (Altace)
Fosinopril (Monopril)
Trandolapril (Mavik)

What are ACE inhibitors used for?

ACE inhibitors may be used for the treatment of several heart related conditions:

• High blood pressure (Hypertension) - helps to relax the blood vessels in the body
• Congestive Heart Failure - helps to slow the disease and improve quality of life
• To reduce the chance of a heart attack - helps to decrease the risk of heart attacks in patients who have risk factors
  

How do you take ACE inhibitors?

Take this medication according to the instructions on the prescription label.

If you have been prescribed captopril, take this medication on an empty stomach (1 hour before or 2 hours after meals). All other drugs in this group can be taken without regards to meals; however, it is important to be consistent with the time you take it each day.

What special instructions do you need to know?

• Try not to miss any doses. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time.
• These medications may cause some people to retain potassium. Your doctor will order blood tests to watch for this side effect.
• Store your medications at room temperature. Keep all medications away from children and never share them with others.

Are there side effects from taking ACE inhibitors?

ACE inhibitors are generally well tolerated. You may experience:

• Stomach upset, fatigue or light-headedness as your body adjusts to this medication.
• A persistent dry cough that may occur in up to 10% of patients. This cough is not harmful but let your doctor know if it occurs and is troublesome.
• Changes in taste perception.
  

When should you call your doctor?

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following:

• unusual swelling of hands, feet or tongue
• signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction (itching, hives, skin rash, swelling or tingling in the mouth and throat or difficulty breathing).
• signs and symptoms of high potassium (stomach pain, vomiting, muscle cramps, numbness in hands and feet and fast, pounding or irregular heartbeat)
• any side effects that persist or become bothersome
• any other unusual or troublesome symptoms
  

What can you do to help?

Be an active partner in your health care. Carry a list of your medications in your wallet or purse. Always let other healthcare professionals know what medications you are taking.

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This information is designed for use in conjunction with teaching by a qualified health professional.
Prepared by: Cardiology Pharmacist's Group

Disclaimer
Reviewed by Alberta clinical experts. Brought to you by HealthLink Alberta. Copyright.
This material is designed for information purposes only. It should not be used in place of medical advice, instruction and/or treatment. For more health advice call Capital Health Link at 780-408-LINK (5465) 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In Alberta, call Toll-free: 1-866-408-LINK (5465)