Capoten

Generic name: Captopril hydrochloride

What is Capoten?

Capoten is used alone or with diuretic to treat high blood pressure. Capoten is also used in combination with digatlis and diuretics for treatment of chronic heart failure. In addition, Capoten is used to improve survival in certain people who have suffered heart attacks and to treat kidney disease in diabetics.

What is the most important information I should know about Capoten?

If you have high blood pressure, you must take Capoten regularly for it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may be several weeks before you get the full benefit of Capoten. You must continue taking it even if you are feeling well. Capoten does not cure high blood pressure it merely keeps it under control.

Who should not take Capoten?

Do not use Capoten if you are allergic to the product or to any other angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors.

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

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medication you are taking before beginning treatment with Capoten. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you are receiving bee or wasp venom to prevent an allergic reaction to stings, if you have kidney disease, or liver disease.

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 initial dose of Capoten is 25 milligrams (mg) taken 2 or 3 times daily. If satisfactory reduction of blood pressure has not been achieved after 1 or 2 weeks, the dose may be increased to 50 mg 2 or 3 times daily. The maximum recommended daily dose is 450 mg.

Heart Failure

The usual dose is 25 mg taken 3 times a day. A daily dosage of 450 mg should not be exceeded.

After a Heart Attack

The usual starting dose is 6.25 mg, taken once, followed by 12.5 mg taken 3 times a day. Your doctor will increase the dose over the next several days to 25 mg taken 3 times a day and then, over the next several weeks, to 50 mg taken 3 times a day.

Kidney Disease in Diabetes

The usual dose is 25 mg taken 3 times a day.

How should I take Capoten?

Capoten should be taken 1 hour before meals. Take Capoten exactly as prescribed. Suddenly stopping Capoten could cause your blood pressure to increase.

What should I avoid while taking Capoten?

Capoten may cause you to become drowsy or less alert. Avoid driving or participating in any potentially hazardous activity. Avoid dehydration because this may cause a drop in blood pressure. Do not use potassium-containing salt substitutes while taking Capoten.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Capoten?

If Capoten 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 Capoten with the following: allopurinol; aspirin; blood pressure drugs known as beta-blockers, such as atenolol and propranolol; cyclosporine; digoxin; diuretics such as hydrochlorothiazide; lithium; nitroglycerin; non-steroidal inflammatory drugs, such as indomethacin and piroxicam; potassium preparations; and potassium-sparing diuretics, such as amiloride or spironolactone.

What are the possible side effects of Capoten?

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: itching, loss of taste, low blood pressure, rash

Call your doctor if you have persistent, dry cough; sore throat; swelling of the face round your lips, tongue, throat, or arms and legs; yellow coloring of your skin or the whites of your eyes.

Can I receive Capoten if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

ACE inhibitors such as Capoten have been shown to cause injury and even death to the developing baby when used in pregnancy during the second and third trimesters. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, contact your doctor immediately. Capoten appears in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If Capoten is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment is finished.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Capoten?

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

How should I store Capoten?

Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container, away from moisture.