Ramipril

Ramipril is a drug that is generally used for treating congestive heart failure and high blood pressure. It works by helping to block an enzyme that normally causes blood vessels to narrow. By blocking this enzyme, ramipril causes blood vessels to relax, which lowers blood pressure. The medication comes as a capsule generally taken once a day, depending on your healthcare provider's instructions. A few of the drug's common side effects include fatigue, body weakness, dizziness, and headache.

 

What Is Ramipril?

Ramipril is a prescription medication used mainly to treat high blood pressure and congestive heart failure. It belongs to a class of drugs called ACE inhibitors and is sold under the brand name Altace®.
 

Side Effects of Ramipril

As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with ramipril.
 Not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. When side effects do occur, in most cases they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by your doctor.
 
Common ramipril side effects include, but are not limited to:
 
(Click Ramipril Side Effects to learn about the specific side effects of this medication.)
 

What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?

You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this drug if you:
 
  • Have heart disease
  • Have liver failure
  • Have kidney disease
  • Have diabetes
  • Will be undergoing surgery or anesthesia.
     
Let your healthcare provider know if you are pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant. During pregnancy, ramipril can cause damage or even death to the developing fetus.
 
Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take (including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements), especially if you are taking a diuretic (water pill) or a potassium supplement.
 
Do not take any salt substitutes containing potassium without first discussing it with your healthcare provider.
 
(Click Ramipril Precautions and Warnings for more information on this topic, including information on who should not take ramipril.)
 

What Is Ramipril Used For?

Ramipril is licensed to treat a number of conditions. These uses include:
 
Ramipril has not been approved for use in children.
 

How Does It Work?

Ramipril is part of a class of drugs called ACE inhibitors. ACE stands for angiotensin-converting enzyme. Ramipril helps to block the angiotensin-converting enzyme, which is normally part of a reaction in the body that causes the blood vessels to narrow (constrict). By blocking this enzyme, it causes blood vessels to relax, which lowers blood pressure.
 

Effects

Because ramipril lowers blood pressure, it can reduce the risks that occur with long-term high blood pressure (see Effects of High Blood Pressure). For those with congestive heart failure, relaxing the blood vessels makes it easier for the heart to pump.
 
Ramipril has also been proven to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, or cardiovascular death in high-risk patients over the age 55.
 

When and How Do I Take Ramipril?

The following are some general considerations for those taking this medication:
 
  • Ramipril comes in capsule form. It is generally taken once a day, depending on your healthcare provider's instructions.
  • You can take it with or without food.
  • Ramipril should be taken at the same time each day to maintain an even level of the drug in your blood.
  • For the medication to work properly, you have to take it as prescribed. It will not work if you stop taking it.
 

Dosing Information

The dose of ramipril your healthcare provider recommends will vary depending on a number of factors, including:
 
  • Your age
  • The medical condition being treated
  • Other medical conditions you may have
  • Other medications you may be currently taking.
     
As always, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
 
(Click Ramipril Dosing for more information about dosing for ramipril.)
  

Drug Interactions With Ramipril

Ramipril can potentially interact with a number of other medicines.
 
(Click Ramipril Drug Interactions for more information.)
  

Overdose

People who take too much ramipril may have overdose symptoms that could include:
 
If you happen to overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
 

Who Makes It?

Brand-name Altace is manufactured by King Pharmaceuticals and distributed by Monarch Pharmaceuticals. Several companies make a generic version of ramipril.
 

Storage Methods

Ramipril should be stored at room temperature and kept in an airtight container.
 
Keep ramipril and all medications out of the reach of children.
 

What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Ramipril?

If you do not take your ramipril as scheduled, take your next scheduled dose. Never take a double dose!
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;