General Info: Uses and Effects

Altace Generic (Ramipril) is an ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme) inhibitor used for treating hypertension, congestive heart failure, and boost recovery and survival from a heart attack. Basically, the drug helps lower blood pressure which helps guard patients from possible heart attacks, prevent strokes and kidney complications. The medicine helps relax blood vessels, allowing easy flow of blood into the heart.

Contraindication: Important to Know

The drug should not be used by pregnant women. Altace Ramipril shouldn't be used by people who have ever suffered from angioedema. If you are taking any medication containing Sacubitril, you need to give at least 36 hours before and after the last/next dose before taking this medicine. The drug shouldn't also be used by diabetics on drugs containing Aliskiren, same applies if you suffer from kidney-related complications. Do not also take the medicament if you are allergic to other drugs in the same class such as Benazepril, Trandalopril and Enalapril, among others.

For your own safety during the treatment, you should disclose to the doctor your medical history, especially if you have ever suffered from the following conditions:

• Liver disease;
• Kidney disease;
• Any connective tissue complication, such as lupus, Marfan syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, or scleroderma;
• If you are on the Telmisartan (Marcadis) treatment.

Altace Ramipril is strictly prohibited for pregnant mothers as it might cause death of the unborn baby, especially after the first trimester. Even though it is unclear whether the drug is harmful to nursing babies or whether it passes into breast milk, you are advised not to take this medicine when breastfeeding. However, your doctor is best placed to advise you appropriately.

Instructions on Taking

You should take Altace Generic strictly according to the doctor's prescription. Read and understand the label, but bear in mind that the physician may have to change the dose after assessing a number of factors such as your health status, age and other medical conditions you might be suffering from. Use this drug strictly as prescribed; don't exceed or reduce the dosage, extend or discontinue treatment without consulting your doctor.

You should swallow the Altace tablet whole, with or without food. For capsules, open it and mix with a half-cup of water, apple sauce, or juice. Don't chew before swallowing. This mixture can be stored at room temperature for up to 24 hours or 48 hours when stored in a refrigerator. For the best absorption, take the drug at the same time daily according to the doctor's instruction.

During the course of the Altace Ramipril treatment, you need to have your blood pressure checked regularly as well as blood tests to ascertain the potassium levels in your blood. Ensure that you drink lots of water during the treatment period to avoid the risk of dehydration which can result in other complications, such as kidney failure, electrolyte disorders, and blood pressure. In case you have a scheduled surgical operation of any kind, disclose to the surgeon that you are taking Altace.

In case you are using this medicine to treat high blood pressure, don't discontinue your treatment even after feeling as if you have recovered. Note that this medication may have to be taken for a lifetime; don't discontinue abruptly. Missed doses should be taken as soon as you recall but can be skipped if you remember near the next dose. Don't be tempted to make up for missed dose as that might only result in overdose.

When using Altace Ramipril, avoid the following;

• Potassium supplements and salt substitutes;
• Alcohol as it might lower blood pressure and increase the risks of the drug's side effects;
• Getting up fast from a lying or sitting position because the drug can make you feel dizzy. Instead, get up slowly to avoid falling.

Considering the fact that you might be taking this medication for a long period, you are encouraged to remain in touch with your doctor for close monitoring of your health.

Dosage

As mentioned, a dosage will depend on a number of factors and can only be set by your physician upon proper diagnosis of your condition. Normally, the following will apply:

• Diabetic nephropathy and hypertension: patients who are not using a diuretic are required to take an initial dose 2.5mg by mouth, once daily. Thereafter, the dose can be increased up to 20mg/day, either as a single dose or divided.
• Congestive heart failure and myocardial intarction: take 2.5mg twice per day. The maintenance dose moves to 5mg, taken twice per day.

Your doctor may have to adjust your dose after sometime depending on how you respond to the treatment just to ensure that you get the right effect during and after it. Always share your progress, which will inform the physician's decisions and the best course of treatment.

Side Effects

The following are the most common side effects of Altace Ramipril:

• Severe stomach pain;
• Breathing difficulties;
• Face, throat, tongue, and lips swelling;
• Reduced or entirely no urination;
• Jaundice;
• Sweating;
• Confusion;
• Light-headedness;
• Symptoms of cold, such as fever, sore throat, and chills;
• Symptoms of high potassium, such as tingly feeling, nauseas, chest pain, weakness, irregular heartbeats, and inability to move.

Even though one may not experience all the above symptoms, it is important to remain observant of your body's response to the drug. The above list is not exhaustive as other symptoms might occur; don't hesitate to call your doctor or emergency medical contacts near you. However, some side effects may set in and disappear after sometime of treatment. Do not panic, it is part of therapy. You should also find out from your healthcare provider ways through which you can reduce or avoid these side effects altogether.

Interaction with Other Drugs

When drugs interact, their effectiveness is affected and might cause some severe side effects. Altace Ramipril has been found to interact with the following drugs:

• Aliskiren;
• Lithium;
• Sacubitrol;
• Telmisartan;
• Drugs that can weaken the immune system such as Sirolimus and Everolimus;
• Medicines that can increase potassium levels in the blood like birth control pills and Losartan;
• Drugs containing ingredients that can cause heart failure or increase blood pressure like Ibuprofen, diet aids, and medicines for treating cough and cold.

The above list is not conclusive. You are therefore urged to disclose to your doctor all medicines you have or are taking, medical history, and allergies. This way, the risks of drug interaction can be avoided.