Capozide

Generic name: Captopril and hydrochlorothiazide

What is Capozide?

Capozide combines a blood pressure lowering medication (captopril) with a water pill (hydrochlorothiazide) to treat high blood pressure.

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

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

Who should not take Capozide?

If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to captopril, hydrochlorothiazide, other ACE inhibitors such as enalapril or other thiazide diuretics such as chlorothiazide, or if you are sensitive to other sulfonamide-derived drugs, you should not take Capozide. If you have a history of angioedema (swelling of face, extremities, and throat) or inability to urinate, you should not take Capozide.

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

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medication you are taking before beginning treatment with Capozide. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have chronic heart failure, a connective tissue disease called lupus erythematosus, kidney disease, liver disease, or if you are on dialysis.

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.

Adults: Dosages of Capozide are always individualized, and your doctor will determine what combination works best for you. This medication can be used with other blood pressure medications such as beta-blockers. Dosages are also adjusted for people with decreased kidney function.

The initial dose is one 25 milligram/15 milligram (mg) tablet, once a day. If this is not effective, your doctor may adjust the dosage upward every 6 weeks. In general, the daily dose of captopril should not exceed 150 mg. The maximum recommended daily dose of hydrochlorothiazide is 50 mg.

How should I take Capozide?

Take Capozide one hour before meals. Take this medication exactly as prescribed.

What should I avoid while taking Capozide?

Do not stop taking Capozide unless instructed by your doctor. Stopping Capozide suddenly can cause your blood pressure to increase.

Patients with heart failure should not increase their physical activity too quickly.

Do not use potassium-sparing diuretics, potassium supplements or potassium-containing salt substitutes without talking to your doctor.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Capozide?

If Capozideis 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 Capozide with the following: alcohol; antigout drugs such as allopurinol; barbiturates; calcium; digoxin; cholestyramine; colestipol; corticosteroids, such as prednisone; diabetes drugs, such as glyburide or insulin; diazoxide; lithium; MAO inhibitors, such as phenelzine; methenamine; narcotics; nitroglycerin; nonsteroidal anti-inflammmatory drugs, such as naproxen; norepinephrine; oral blood thinners, such as warfarin; other blood pressure drugs, such as prazosin or terazosin; potassium-sparing diuretics, such as spironolactone; potassium supplements; probenecid; and sulfinpyrazone.

What are the possible side effects of Capozide?

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

If you develop swelling of the face around your lips, tongue, or throat (or of your arms and legs), or have difficulty swallowing, stop taking Capozide and contact your doctor immediately. You may need emergency treatment.

If you notice a yellow coloring to your skin or the whites of your eyes (jaundice), stop taking the drug and notify your doctor immediately. Also, if you develop a sore throat; dry, persistent cough; excessive sweating; dehydration; severe diarrhea; or vomiting; contact your doctor immediately.

Can I receive Capozide if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant discontinue use of Capozide as soon as possible. If you plan to become pregnant and are taking Capozide, contact your doctor immediately. Capozide appears in breast milk. Avoid breastfeeding if you are taking Capozide.

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

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 our regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

How should I store Capozide?

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