RAMIPRIL (ra MI pril) treats high blood pressure and heart failure. It can also be used to lower the risk of heart attack or stroke in people with heart or peripheral artery disease. It works by relaxing blood vessels, which decreases the amount of work the heart has to do. It belongs to a group of medications called ACE inhibitors.
What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
Diabetes
Heart or blood vessel disease
Immune system disease like lupus or scleroderma
Kidney disease
Liver disease
Low blood pressure
Previous swelling of the tongue, face, or lips with difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, or tightening of the throat
An unusual or allergic reaction to lisinopril, insect venom, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
Breast-feeding
How should I use this medication?
Take this medication by mouth. Take it as directed on the prescription label at the same time every day. Do not cut, crush, or chew this medication. Swallow the capsules whole. You may open the capsule and put the contents in 1 teaspoon of applesauce. Swallow the medication and applesauce right away. Do not chew the medication or applesauce. Keep taking it unless your care team tells you to stop.
Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What may interact with this medication?
Do not take this medication with any of the following:
Sacubitril; valsartan
This medication may also interact with the following:
Diuretics
Everolimus
Lithium
NSAIDs, medications for pain and inflammation, like ibuprofen or naproxen
Over-the-counter herbal supplements like hawthorn
Potassium supplements
Salt substitutes
Sirolimus
Temsirolimus
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
Allergic reactions or angioedema—skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, arms, or legs, trouble swallowing or breathing
High potassium level—muscle weakness, fast or irregular heartbeat
Kidney injury—decrease in the amount of urine, swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet
Liver injury—right upper belly pain, loss of appetite, nausea, light-colored stool, dark yellow or brown urine, yellowing skin or eyes, unusual weakness or fatigue
Low blood pressure—dizziness, feeling faint or lightheaded, blurry vision
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
Cough
Dizziness
Fatigue
Headache
What should I watch for while using this medication?
Visit your care team for regular check ups. Check your blood pressure as directed. Ask your care team what your blood pressure should be, and when you should contact them. If you are diabetic, check your blood sugar as directed.
Women should inform their care team if they wish to become pregnant or think they might be pregnant. There is a potential for serious side effects to an unborn child. Talk to your care team or pharmacist for more information.
Check with your care team if you have severe diarrhea or vomiting, or if you sweat a lot or become dehydrated. The loss of body fluids can be dangerous while taking this medication.
A few patients have had strong allergic reactions during desensitization treatment with hymenoptera venom and during some kinds of dialysis. Talk to your care team if you are going to have either of these procedures.
If you are going to have surgery, tell your care team that you are taking this medication.
Where should I keep my medication?
Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.
K Health articles are all written and reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, or PharmDs and are for informational purposes only. This information does not constitute and should not be relied on for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment.
This information is educational only and should not be construed as specific instructions for individual patients nor as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk to your health care provider or pharmacist about the information and instructions. K Health assumes no liability for any use or reliance on this information.
