Quinapril(kwin' a pril)
Brand name(s): Accupril
IMPORTANT WARNING:| Do not take quinapril if you arepregnant or breast-feeding. If you become pregnant whiletaking quinapril, call your doctor immediately. |
Why is this medication prescribed?Quinapril is used to treat high bloodpressure and heart failure. It decreases certain chemicals thattighten the blood vessels so that blood flows more smoothly andthe heart can pump more efficiently. This medication is sometimes prescribed forother uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for moreinformation.
How should this medicine be used?Quinapril comes as a tablet to take bymouth. It is usually taken once or twice a day. Follow thedirections on your prescription label carefully, and ask yourdoctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand.Take quinapril exactly as directed. Do not take more or less ofit or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Quinapril controls high blood pressure andheart failure but does not cure them. Continue to takequinapril even if you feel well. Do not stop taking quinaprilwithout talking to your doctor.
What special precautions should I follow?Before taking quinapril, - tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic toquinapril or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription andnonprescription medications you are taking, especiallydiuretics ('water pills'), lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid),other medications for high blood pressure, potassiumsupplements, and vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart orkidney disease or diabetes.
- if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tellthe doctor or dentist that you are taking quinapril.
What special dietary instructions should I follow?Quinapril may cause an upset stomach. Takequinapril with food or milk. Avoid taking quinapril withhigh-fat foods or high-fat meals. Talk to your doctor before using saltsubstitutes containing potassium. If your doctor prescribes alow-salt or low-sodium diet, follow these directionscarefully.
What should I do if I forget a dose?Take the missed dose as soon as youremember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose,skip the missed dose and continue your regular regular dosingschedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missedone.
What side effects can this medication cause?Although side effects from quinapril arenot common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of thesesymptoms are severe or do not go away: - headache
- dizziness or lightheadedness
- excessive tiredness
- diarrhea
- upset stomach
- cough
- sore throat
- fever
- unusual bruising
If you experience any of the followingsymptoms, call your doctor immediately: - swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, arms, orlegs
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- fainting
- rash
What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?Keep this medication in the container itcame in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store itat room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (notin the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated orno longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the properdisposal of your medication.
In case of emergency/overdoseIn case of overdose, call your local poisoncontrol center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsedor is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911. Symptoms of overdose may include:
What other information should I know?Keep all appointments with your doctor andthe laboratory. Your blood pressure should be checked regularlyto determine your response to quinapril. Do not let anyone else take yourmedication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have aboutrefilling your prescription.
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