Description

Captopril Tablets 50 mg.

Captopril is a medication that comes in tablet form with a strength of 50 mg. per tablet. It is commonly used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, and other heart conditions. Captopril belongs to a class of drugs known as ACE inhibitors, which work by relaxing blood vessels and improving blood flow.

Indications

Captopril is prescribed for the treatment of various conditions, including:

• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Heart failure
• Improving survival after a heart attack
• Diabetic nephropathy

How It Works

Captopril works by inhibiting the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), which is responsible for the production of angiotensin II. Angiotensin II is a hormone that constricts blood vessels, leading to increased blood pressure. By blocking the action of ACE, captopril helps to dilate blood vessels, reducing blood pressure and improving blood flow to the heart and other organs.

Dosage and Administration

The usual starting dose of captopril for treating hypertension is 25 mg. taken two or three times a day. The dose may be gradually increased by your healthcare provider based on your response to the medication. The maximum recommended dose is 150 mg. per day.

For heart failure, the starting dose is typically lower, around 6.25 to 12.5 mg. two to three times a day. Again, the dose may be adjusted by your doctor based on your individual needs.

Captopril is usually taken on an empty stomach, at least one hour before meals. It is important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding the dosage and schedule for taking this medication.

Side Effects

Like all medications, captopril can cause side effects. Some common side effects of captopril include:

• Cough
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Low blood pressure

Serious side effects of captopril are rare but can include:

• Swelling of the face, lips, throat, or tongue
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Chest pain
• Fever
• Jaundice

If you experience any severe side effects while taking captopril, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Precautions

Before taking captopril, inform your healthcare provider if you have any of the following conditions:

• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Heart disease
• Diabetes
• History of angioedema

Captopril may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions, so it is important to discuss your medical history with your doctor before starting this medication.

Drug Interactions

Captopril may interact with other medications, including:

• Diuretics (water pills)
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Potassium supplements
• Lithium

Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements, to avoid potential drug interactions.

Storage

Store captopril tablets at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the medication in its original packaging and out of reach of children. Do not use captopril if the tablets are discolored or show signs of deterioration.

Conclusion

Captopril is an effective medication for the treatment of high blood pressure, heart failure, and other heart conditions. By inhibiting the angiotensin-converting enzyme, captopril helps to lower blood pressure and improve blood flow, reducing the risk of heart-related complications. It is important to take captopril as prescribed by your healthcare provider and to be aware of the potential side effects and precautions associated with this medication.

If you have any questions or concerns about captopril or its use, consult your healthcare provider for further guidance.