Accupril

Common Name: quinapril

How does Accupril work?

Quinapril belongs to the class of medications called ACE inhibitors. It is used for the treatment of high blood pressure and congestive heart failure. It works by relaxing blood vessels and by making the heart pump more efficiently. Quinapril may be used in addition to diuretics (water pills) known as thiazide diuretics (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide) when one medication has not been found to control blood pressure satisfactorily. Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

How should I use Accupril?

The recommended dose of quinapril ranges from 5 mg to 40 mg daily in one dose or two divided doses, taken with or without meals. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones given here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. I t is very important that this medication be taken on a regular schedule as prescribed by the doctor. If you miss a dose of this medication, take it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and carry on with your regular schedule. Do not double-up on doses.

What form(s) does Accupril come in?

Accupril® is available in strengths of 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, and 40 mg. 5 mg: Available as a brown, film-coated, elliptical tablet, embossed "PD 527" on one side and "5" on the other, containing 5 mg of quinapril. 10 mg: Available as a brown, film-coated, triangular tablet, embossed "PD 530" on one side and "10" on the other, containing 10 mg of quinapril. 20 mg: Available as a brown, film-coated, round tablet, embossed "PD 532" on one side and "20" on the other, containing 20 mg of quinapril. 40 mg: Available as a brown, film-coated, elliptical tablet, embossed "PD 535" on one side and "40" on the other, containing 40 mg of quinapril. Nonmedicinal ingredients: candelilla wax, crospovidone, gelatin, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, lactose, magnesium carbonate, magnesium stearate, polyethylene glycol, synthetic red iron oxide, and titanium dioxide.

What should I NOT take with Accupril?

Quinapril should not be taken by: anyone allergic to quinapril or any of the ingredients of the medication those who have had angioedema (a serious allergic reaction which causes the area around the throat and tongue to swell) after taking any ACE inhibitors (e.g., captopril, ramipril)

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Accupril?

Angioedema: Angioedema (swelling of the mouth, lips, tongue, eye, or throat causing difficulty swallowing or breathing) has been reported in a small number of people who take quinapril. If any of these symptoms occur, quinapril should be stopped immediately and the person taken to a hospital. Also, consult your doctor immediately about any unexplained rash, fever, or itching. If you experience angioedema with quinapril, do not take any other ACE inhibitors (e.g., enalapril, lisinopril, or ramipril). Cough: A dry, persistent cough, which usually disappears only after withdrawal or lowering of the dose of quinapril, may occur for those who take this medication. Kidney function: Changes in kidney function have been seen for some individuals who are sensitive to this effect. For certain people, use of diuretics (water pills) may further increase risk of kidney problems. Low blood pressure: Low blood pressure may occur suddenly after taking quinapril, usually after the first or second dose, or when the dose is increased. This is more likely to occur for people who are also take diuretics (water pills), have a dietary salt restriction, receive dialysis, or are experiencing diarrhea or vomiting. Such people should be monitored closely for the first weeks of treatment and whenever the dose of quinapril is increased. Signs of low blood pressure include dizziness and lightheadedness. Potassium levels: Increases in blood levels of potassium occur for approximately 2% of people who take quinapril. This rarely causes problems, but potassium levels may be monitored by the doctor. Pregnancy: ACE inhibitors such as quinapril can cause serious problems during pregnancy. If you become pregnant, stop taking quinapril immediately and contact your doctor. Breast-feeding: It is not known whether quinapril passes into breast milk. Because many medications do pass into breast milk, nursing mothers should use caution if taking quinapril. In general, they should stop breast-feeding. Children: The safety and effectiveness of quinapril have not been established for use by children. Quinapril is not recommended for this age group.