You must take Accupril regularly for it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may be several weeks before you get the full benefit of Accupril; and you must continue taking it even if you are feeling well. Accupril does not cure high blood pressure; it merely keeps it under control.
Take Accupril exactly as prescribed, and see your doctor regularly to make sure the drug is working properly without unwanted side effects. Do not stop taking this drug without first consulting your doctor.
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or
change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can
determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Accupril.
More common side effects may include: Dizziness, headache.
Less common side effects may include:Abdominal pain, coughing, fatigue, nausea, vomiting.
If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Accupril or similar drugs, such as Capoten and Vasotec, you should not take this medication. Make sure your doctor is aware of any drug reactions you have experienced.
If Accupril is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Accupril with the following: Diuretics such as Lasix, Lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid), Potassium-sparing diuretics such as Aldactone, Dyazide, and Moduretic, Potassium supplements such as Slow-K and K-Dur, Salt substitutes containing potassium Tetracycline (Sumycin).
ACE inhibitors such as Accupril have been shown to cause injury and even death to the unborn child when used in pregnancy during the second and third trimesters. If you are pregnant, your doctor should discontinue Accupril as soon as possible. If you plan to become pregnant, make sure your doctor knows you are taking this medication. Accupril may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If this medication is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment is finished.
If you develop swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or
throat, or of your arms and legs, or have difficulty swallowing or breathing, you should
contact your doctor immediately. You may need emergency treatment.
You may feel light-headed, especially during the first few days of Accupril therapy. If
this occurs, notify your doctor. If you actually faint, stop taking the medication until
you have consulted with your doctor.
Vomiting, diarrhea, and heavy perspiration can all deplete your body fluid; and
dehydration can cause your blood pressure to drop. If this leads to light-headedness or
fainting, you should check with your doctor.
Inform your doctor or dentist that you are taking Accupril before undergoing surgery or
anesthesia.
Do not use potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium without
consulting your doctor.
If you develop a sore throat or fever contact your doctor immediately. It could indicate a
more serious illness.
If you are taking Accupril, your doctor will do a complete assessment of your kidney
function and will watch it closely as long as you are taking this drug.
If you notice a yellow tinge to your skin and the whites of your eyes, stop taking the
drug and notify your doctor immediately. This could be a sign of liver damage. The safety
and effectiveness of Accupril in children have not been established.
