Altace

Common Name: ramipril

How does Altace work?

Ramipril belongs to the class of medications called ACE inhibitors. It is used for the treatment of high blood pressure and congestive heart failure. Ramipril may be used alone or in combination with other medications. It works by relaxing blood vessels and by making the heart pump more efficiently. It is also given after heart attacks to reduce the risk of another heart attack. Ramipril may also be used to reduce the risk of problems associated with heart disease for people over 55 years of age who are at a high risk of having these problems. 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 Altace?

The recommended adult dose of ramipril ranges from 2.5 mg to 20 mg daily in one or two divided doses, depending on the dose and circumstances. For treatment of high blood pressure, the usual starting dose for people not using diuretics (water-pills) is 2.5 mg once daily. The dose is usually increased according to need every two weeks. The usual dose range is 2.5 mg to 10 mg daily. For people using diuretics, your doctor may ask you to stop using the diuretic for two or three days before starting ramipril. For people at increased risk of heart disease events, the recommended starting dose is 2.5 mg once daily, increasing gradually to 10 mg daily if tolerated. When used after a heart attack to prevent another heart attack, the recommended dose of ramipril ranges from 2.5 mg to 5 mg twice daily. 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. It 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 Altace come in?

Altace® is available in strengths of 1.25 mg, 2.5 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg. 1.25 mg: Each hard gelatin capsule, with white opaque body imprinted with "Altace" and yellow opaque cap marked "1.25", contains ramipril 1.25 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: gelatin NF, pregelatinized starch NF, titanium dioxide, and iron oxide. 2.5 mg: Each hard gelatin capsule, with white opaque body imprinted with "Altace" and orange opaque cap marked "2.5", contains ramipril 2.5 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: FD&C Red No. 3, gelatin, pregelatinized starch, titanium dioxide, and iron oxide. 5 mg: Each hard gelatin capsule, with white opaque body imprinted with "Altace" and red opaque cap marked "5", contains ramipril 5 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: FD&C Blue No. 2, FD&C Red No. 3, gelatin, pregelatinized starch, and titanium dioxide. 10 mg: Each hard gelatin capsule, with white opaque body imprinted with "Altace" and blue opaque cap marked "10", contains ramipril 10 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: iron oxide, FD&C Blue No. 2, FD&C Red No. 3, gelatin, pregelatinized starch, and titanium dioxide.

What should I NOT take with Altace?

Ramipril should not be taken by anyone allergic to ramipril or any of the ingredients of the medication or by anyone who has 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 Altace?

Angioedema: Angioedema (swelling of the mouth, lips, tongue, eye, or throat causing difficulty swallowing or breathing) has been reported for a small number of people who take ramipril. If any of these symptoms occur, ramipril should be stopped at once and the person taken to hospital. Also, any unexplained rash, fever, or itching should also be referred to a doctor at once. If you experience angioedema with ramipril, do not take any of the other ACE inhibitors, such as enalapril, lisinopril, or quinapril. Cough: A dry, persistent cough, which usually disappears only after withdrawal or lowering of the dose of ramipril, may occur. Kidney function: Changes in kidney function have been seen for certain people who take this medication. The use of diuretics (water pills) may further increase the risk of kidney problems for those already at risk for this problem. Low blood pressure: Occasionally, blood pressure drops too low after taking ramipril. This usually happens after the first or second dose or when the dose is increased. It is more likely to occur for those who take diuretics, have a salt restricted diet, are on dialysis, or are suffering from diarrhea or vomiting. If low blood pressure causes you to faint or feel lightheaded, contact a doctor. Excessive sweating and lack of fluid intake may lead to an excessive fall in blood pressure because of reduced fluid in your blood vessels. Vomiting or diarrhea may also lead to a fall in blood pressure. Talk to your doctor if you feel your blood pressure may be too low. Potassium: Increases in blood levels of potassium occur for approximately 2% of people who take ramipril. This rarely causes problems, but your doctor will likely want to monitor your potassium levels through blood tests. Pregnancy: ACE inhibitors such as ramipril have the potential to cause serious problems during pregnancy. If you discover you are pregnant, stop taking ramipril as soon as possible. Breast-feeding: Nursing women should not take ramipril. Children: The safety and effectiveness of ramipril have not been established for use by children. Its use by this age group is not recommended.