Ramipril belongs to a class of drugs called angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. The FDA approved Ramipril in 1991, and Pfizer produced it. It has been prescribed for several different reasons. Used alone or in combination with other medicines to treat;
- Hypertension
- Reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in patients who will face these problems
- Treatment of kidney disease or delayed worsening of renal disease (diabetes or non-diabetic) (nephropathy)
- To improve survival in patients with heart failure after a heart attack.
Mechanism of action:
It works by blocking the effect of a compound in the body called angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE). Normally, the ACE produces another compound called angiotensin II, as part of the natural control of the blood pressure of the body. Angiotensin II causes narrowing and narrowing of blood vessels and raises blood pressure. By blocking the effect of ACE, ramipril reduces the production of angiotensin II, which allows blood vessels to relax and expand. The general effect is to lower the blood pressure.
Side effects:
The most common side effects are:
- Low blood pressure-induced dizziness or fainting
- Cough
- Dizziness
- Chest pain
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Weakness or fatigue
Serious side effects and labeling may include:
- This is more common when you initiate low blood pressure pacemakers or when you increase doses.
- Allergic or hypersensitivity reaction (angioedema).
- Liver problems (jaundice)
- Swelling (edema)
- Purple stain (purple) on your skin caused by internal bleeding
- Heart rate or fast or abnormal heart beat.
- High potassium levels
- Worse kidney function.
Pregnancy:
Ramipril, black box warning, because drugs can cause damage and death to a developing fetus. Do not take ramipril if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It can cause damage to a developing fetus, especially when taken during the second and third trimester. Medicines such as ramipril can reduce kidney function in unborn babies; It can also cause insufficient development. Bones of lungs and babies.
Dose for ramipril
The usual ramipril dose for hypertension is 2.5-20 mg per day, in single or double divided doses. Patients who use diuretics or who have reduced renal function may require lower doses. Heart failure is initially treated with 1.25-2.5 mg twice daily and titrated to 10 mg once daily or 5 mg twice daily. The prevention of heart attack and stroke is between 2.5 and 10 mg / day.