Altace Uses
Ramipril is the Altace generic name. It is an oral anti-hypertension medicine that belongs to the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor drug class. It is used to control high blood pressure and treat heart failure after a heart attack. As a result, this drug increases patients’ lifespan by lowering the risk of getting heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems.
This medication can be used as a single therapy pill or in combination with other drugs to treat high blood pressure.
How does Altace work?
This medication functions as an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. It relaxes your blood vessels (veins, arteries, and capillaries) by inhibiting the production of angiotensin II.
ACE is the one responsible for producing angiotensin II. Angiotensin II is potent in constricting your blood vessels. This constriction raises blood pressure, increases cardiac workload, and reduces blood flow throughout the body.
Altace suppresses the release of angiotensin II. As a result, it dilates blood vessels, improves blood circulation, and lowers blood pressure.
Altace Dosage
Individuals require varying amounts of Altace. This medicine is available in different oral
strengths, depending on your need, age, and tolerance:
- 1.25 mg per tablet
- 2.5 mg per tablet
- 5 mg per tablet
- 10 mg per tablet
The recommended dosage for hypertension is 2.5 mg to 20 mg capsule once a day. If you still need additional blood pressure relief after two to four weeks of starting this therapy, the maximum daily dose can be gradually increased depending on your physician.
The initial starting dose for people with heart failure after a heart attack is 2.5 mg, one capsule two times a day, with a target dose of 5 mg twice daily.
Do not alter your dosage and frequency. Talk to your doctor first if you need to make any adjustments.
Best way to use Altace
Initially, read all medicine directions and information carefully. Use the drug precisely as directed. If you have any questions or are unsure how to use ramipril, talk to your doctor and seek medical advice.
As prescribed, take this medicine orally once or twice a day. You can take this medication with or without regard to food. If, in any case, you are having a hard time ingesting the capsule, open it and sprinkle the entire contents on a spoonful of applesauce and swallow it without chewing.
Remember to take this medication regularly to avoid skipping a dosage. Making a note on your calendar may assist you in remembering to take your medicine. If you forget to take this capsule at the scheduled time, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule.
In addition to taking this medication, diet, exercise, quitting smoking, and managing diabetes are all adjunct therapies for reducing blood pressure. It is not advisable to change your dosage without first consulting your doctor or pharmacist.
Altace Side Effects
Common side effects of this medication that may subside on their own without medical intervention include:
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Weakness
- Dry
- Cough
- Low
- Blood pressure
- Nausea
- Vomiting
However, if you develop any of the following adverse events, contact your doctor right away:
- Fainting
- High potassium symptoms: muscle weakness, irregular heart rate, chest pain
- Kidney problem symptoms: changes in the amount of urine
- Liver problem symptoms: yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark urine, unbearable stomach pain
- Swelling (face, lips, throat, extremities)
Note that this list does not include all of the potential side effects of this medication. Other unwanted outcomes are possible.
Precautions when using Altace
Before you start using this medication you need to do the following:
If you have a high potassium level in your blood, electrolyte imbalance, or liver or kidney problems, inform your doctor right away. Doing so can keep your current medical condition from worsening.
Do not take this medication if you are allergic to ramipril or other ingredients. When using this medication, watch out for adverse reactions such as rashes, hives, swelling of the face and lips, throat tightness, or difficulty breathing. As soon as these signs and symptoms occur, you should call your doctor.
Inform your doctor if you are on potassium supplements or salt replacements containing potassium. This drug can raise your potassium levels which can be dangerous if taken in excess.
Do not use this drug if you are taking medications containing sacubitril and aliskiren. Altace may interact with them and have significant health implications.
If you have diabetes, avoid taking this medication since it may cause your blood sugar levels to rise.
Be sure to monitor your laboratory results and blood pressure levels, to effectively manage the side effects of the medication.
Since this drug may cause dizziness, avoid activities that require alertness to prevent accidents, such as driving or operating machinery.
Be sure to keep this item out of the reach of children. Store this medication properly, and discard drugs that have passed their expiration date.
How much does Altace cost?
The price of Altace is relatively reasonable given its effectiveness. You can easily purchase this medication from our online platform conveniently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Altace medication safe to use during pregnancy?
Altace is not recommended during pregnancy. It can harm the unborn baby, and in the worst-case scenario, it can be fatal or cause miscarriage. Be sure to inform your doctor if you are pregnant or become pregnant.
How fast does it take for Altace to lower blood pressure?
According to clinical studies, it varies from person to person, but Altace can reduce high blood pressure within one hour of starting this therapy and control it in one week.
Can Altace cause dizziness?
Yes, it is one of the medication’s side effects. Altace can make you dizzy. When rising from a seated or lying position, it is best to take your time and get up slowly.
What laboratory tests should I obtain when taking Altace?
Regular monitoring of serum potassium levels and kidney function is a must. Increased levels are potentially fatal or can be life-threatening.