Accupril

quinapril

Accupril is prescribed to treat high blood pressure, or hypertension, by relaxing blood vessels and causing them to widen. Lowering blood pressure helps to prevent heart attacks, strokes and kidney problems. Accupril, also known as Quinapril may also be prescribed to treat congestive heart failure.

Accupril can cause the following side effects:

• dizziness
• excessive tiredness
• cough
• upset stomach
• vomiting

Less common, more serious side effects warrant an immediate call to a doctor:

• swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
• hoarseness
• difficulty breathing or swallowing
• yellowing of the skin or eyes
• fever, sore throat, chills, and other signs of infection
• chest pain
• lightheadedness
• fainting
• decreased sexual ability

Patients should take precautions before taking and while taking Accupril:

• let the doctor and pharmacist know if you are allergic to any medications
• tell the doctor and pharmacist what other prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking
• tell the doctor your medical history
• let your doctor know if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant or are breast-feeding

Patients who miss a dose are advised not to double the dose to catch up. Instead, if it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the usual dosing schedule.

Serious allergic reactions to this drug are unlikely, but symptoms of an allergic reaction include:

• rash
• itching
• swelling
• severe dizziness
• trouble breathing

If patients using Accupril notice side effects or symptoms not listed above, they are advised to contact doctors.

Source: “Accupril,” Medline Plus; “Quinapril,” MedicineNet.com.