Accupril
® (
quinapril hydrochloride) is a prescription medicine that has been licensed to treat several conditions related to the heart and blood vessels. It is part of a class of drugs called angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, or ACE inhibitors for short.
It is manufactured by Pfizer Pharmaceuticals.
Accupril has been licensed to treat a number of conditions. These uses include:
Accupril is part of a class of drugs called ACE inhibitors.
ACE stands for angiotensin-converting enzyme. Accupril helps to block the angiotensin-converting enzyme, which is normally part of a reaction in the body that causes the blood vessels to narrow (constrict). By blocking this enzyme, the medication causes blood vessels to relax, which can
lower blood pressure.
By helping blood vessels relax, Accupril also increases the efficiency of the heart. This means that the heart does not have to work as hard and more blood can be pumped out to the rest of the body. Both of these are helpful for a person with congestive
heart failure.
When and How Do I Take It?
Some general considerations for when and how to take Accupril include:
- The medication comes in tablet form. It is usually taken once or twice a day.
- It should be taken on an empty stomach -- at least one hour before or two hours after a meal.
- It should be taken at the same times each day to maintain an even level of Accupril in your blood.
- For the medication to work properly, you have to take it as prescribed. It will not work if you stop taking it.
The dosage your healthcare provider recommends will vary depending on a number of factors, including:
- Your age
- The medical condition being treated
- Other medical conditions you may have
- Other medications you may be currently taking.
As with any medication, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with Accupril. However, not everyone who takes it will experience side effects. When side effects do occur, they are often minor, meaning that they require no treatment or are easily treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
(Click Accupril Side Effects to learn about the specific side effects of this drug, including serious side effects to look out for. You can also read about other possible side effects by going to:
Drug Interactions With Accupril
Accupril can potentially interact with a number of medicines.
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this medication if you have:
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you:
- Are pregnant or trying to become pregnant (see Accupril and Pregnancy)
- Are breastfeeding
- Are on dialysis
- Will be undergoing surgery or anesthesia.
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you are currently taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Do not take any potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium without first discussing it with your healthcare provider.
People who take too much Accupril may have overdose symptoms that could include extremely low
blood pressure.
If you happen to overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
The medication should be stored at room temperature, and away from moisture and heat. Accupril tablets should be kept in an airtight container.
Keep Accupril and all medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Accupril?
If you do not take your dose as scheduled, take your next dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue with normal dosing. Never take a double dose!
Accupril tablets are available in several strengths, including:
- Accupril 5 mg
- Accupril 10 mg
- Accupril 20 mg
- Accupril 40 mg.
Accupril is available as a generic medicine.
