Medication Basics
Generic Name: Ramipril
Brand Name: Altace
Medication Class: ACE-inhibitor
Description
Ramipril, along with other ACE-inhibitors, reduces hormones released by the kidney that affect blood pressure and the heart in adverse ways. For the most part, they are considered therapeutically equivalent to another class of drugs called ARBs. They are cornerstones in the treatment of high blood pressure and chronic or congestive heart failure. In addition, they help to protect the kidney in patients with diabetes or other kidney disease. There is also data that ACEIs and/or ARBs help to prevent adverse cardiovascular events (such as heart attacks) for patients at high risk, although this is somewhat controversial.
When might my doctor prescribe this medication?
-
High blood pressure (or hypertension)
-
Congestive or chronic heart failure (CHF)
-
Chronic kidney failure
-
Diabetes to prevent or lessen the amount of kidney failure
-
After a heart attack or if I have been diagnosed with coronary artery disease (CAD)
I should NOT take this medication if:
-
I have had severe allergic reactions to ramipril or other ACE-inhibitors in the past
-
I have had a specific reaction to ACE-inhibitors or ARBs in the past where there was swelling around my face and/or lips and throat (called angioedema)
-
I am pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant
Adverse Effects (common):
-
Low blood pressure
-
Cough (typically dry and hacking, not productive)
-
Taste disturbance
Adverse Effects (rare, but serious):
-
Swelling around the mouth, lips and throat (angioedema)
-
High blood levels of potassium
-
Acute kidney failure
Common Adult Doses and Forms:
Ramipril (Altace): 1.25 mg to 20 mg once daily
Dosage Forms:
Ramipril (Altace) (capsule): 1.25 mg, 2. 5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg
How should I take this medication?
Ramipril can be taken with or without food. Do not use if pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant. Report any swelling of the face, lips, tongue, throat, or unusual difficulty breathing immediately to your doctor.
Please note that the content on CardioSmart is a summary of the most generally pertinent information about this drug but does not cover every side effect or precaution. However, everyone is unique, and the extent to which the information applies specifically to you should be a key point of discussion between you and your cardiologist or health care provider. The ultimate judgment regarding your care must be made by you and your healthcare provider together, in light of circumstances specific to you as a patient.
