ALTACE

Altace Ingredients: Ramipril
Representative Names: Altace
Generic Available ? No

Who is Altace for ?

Ramipril is used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. It decreases certain chemicals that tighten the blood vessels, so blood flows more smoothly and the heart can pump more efficiently. Altace is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How does it work ?

Ramipril is an angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor, or ACE-inhibitor. Ramipril lowers blood pressure by preventing the formation of angiotensin II, a hormone in the body that causes blood vessels to constrict or narrow. This narrowing of blood vessels due to the angiotensin II hormone is an important component of high blood pressure. Blocking the production of angiotensin II hormone causes blood vessels to relax or dilate, thus reducing blood pressure.

When should I be careful taking Altace ?

Do not take ramipril if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking ramipril, call your doctor immediately.

Before taking ramipril,

tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to ramipril or any other drugs.
tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially diuretics ("water pills"), lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid), other medications for high blood pressure, potassium supplements, and vitamins.
tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart or kidney disease or diabetes.
if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking ramipril.

Side Effects

Although side effects from ramipril are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

dizziness or lightheadedness
headache
chest pain
sore throat
fever
diarrhea
upset stomach
excessive tiredness
cough
unusual bruising

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, arms, or legs
difficulty breathing or swallowing
fainting
rash
yellowing of the skin or eyes