- CAPOTEN (captopril)
Description
Treats high blood pressure (hypertension) and heart failure. Belongs to a class of drugs
called angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors.
Brand Name(s)
Capoten®
When you should not use this medicine
You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to captopril or
other ACE-inhibitors such as Vasotec®, Prinivil®, or Zestril®. You should not use this
medicine if you are pregnant.
How to use and store this medicine
Tablets:
- Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to take and how
often.
- Take your medicine on an empty stomach (at least 1 hour
before or after meals).
- Keep your tablets at room temperature, away from heat or
moisture.
- Keep all medicine away from children.
If you miss a dose:
- Take your medicine as soon as you remember that you have
missed your dose.
- If it is nearly time for your next dose, wait until then to
take the medicine and skip the missed dose.
- You should not use two doses at one time.
How to use this medicine
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter
medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
- Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking medicines that
contain potassium.
- Avoid using salt substitutes while you are taking captopril.
- Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking water pills
(diuretics), other blood pressure medicines, and all products used for colds, cough,
asthma, appetite control, hay fever, or sinus problems.
Warnings
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor
before taking this medicine. If you think you may have become pregnant, check with your
doctor right away.
- Ask your doctor before taking if you have a history of
kidney disorders.
Side effects
Call your doctor right away if you have any of these side effects:
- Trouble swallowing or breathing
- Chest tightness
- Swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
- Fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat
- Numbness or weakness in hands or feet
- Unexplained fever, easy bruising
- Hives, severe itching
- Swelling of the face, mouth, or throat
If you have problems with these less serious side effects,
talk with your doctor.
- Dry continuing cough
- Headache
- Mild rash
- Changes in sense of taste
- Joint pain
- Diarrhea
