Blood Pressure Channel
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Perindopril
Perindopril, a prescription medicine, is commonly used to help control high blood pressure (also known as hypertension). By blocking the angiotensin-converting enzyme that causes blood vessels to constrict, the medication can help blood vessels relax and lower blood pressure. Perindopril comes in tablet form and is available in three different strengths, including 2 mg, 4 mg, and 8 mg.
Perindopril (Aceon®) is a prescription medication that has been licensed for controlling high blood pressure (hypertension) in adults. However, the medication is not a cure for high blood pressure.
Perindopril is part of a class of drugs called angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, or ACE inhibitors for short.
(Click Perindopril Uses for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
Brand-name Aceon is manufactured by Solvay Pharmaceuticals. Generic versions are made by various manufacturers.
As mentioned, perindopril is part of a class of drugs called ACE inhibitors. ACE stands for angiotensin-converting enzyme. Perindopril helps to block this 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.
A blood pressure reading consists of two numbers -- for example, 120/80. The top number is known as the systolic blood pressure, and the bottom number is the diastolic blood pressure. During clinical studies in people taking perindopril, systolic blood pressure decreased, on average, by 9 to 15 mmHg (millimeters of mercury), and diastolic blood pressure decreased by 5 to 6 mmHg, on average. The higher the dose, the greater the drop in blood pressure tended to be.
By lowering blood pressure, this medication can decrease the risks that are often seen with long-term high blood pressure (see Effects of High Blood Pressure).
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD