What is Quinapril?

Quinapril (accupril) is used alone or together with other medicines to treat high blood pressure. High blood pressure makes the heart work harder. If left untreated, it decreases blood flow to the heart and other organs. This lack of oxygen-rich blood causes damage to organs in multiple systems in the body. Lowering blood pressure can reduce the dangerous complications.

Quinapril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. ACE inhibitors work by preventing an enzyme in the body from producing angiotensin II, which narrows blood vessels. Quinapril relaxes your blood vessels and lowers blood pressure. Quinapril is also an effective treatment for congestive heart failure symptoms because it eases fluid buildup in the lungs and relieves shortness of breath.

How to take Quinapril

Quinapril comes as a tablet to take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label carefully. Take Quinapril precisely as directed at the same time each day.

Doctors generally begin patients with a low dose of Quinapril and gradually increase the dosage as needed.

• For high blood pressure, adults usually start with 10mg or 20mg once a day, which might be increased over time up to 40 to 80 mg per day.
• For heart failure, adults usually start with 5 mg twice a day. A doctor might increase the dosage to 20 to 40 mg per day.
• Dosages for children for high blood pressure and heart failure must be determined by a healthcare professional.

The dose of this medicine is different per patient, and the above information only includes average doses of Quinapril. Your dosage may be different, so use exactly as prescribed.

Take missed doses as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double doses or take more or less of Quinapril than prescribed by your doctor.

High blood pressure is a “silent killer” because it usually presents no warning signs or symptoms and most people are unaware they have it, even at dangerously high levels. For this reason, it’s essential to continue to take Quinapril even if you feel well. Speak to your doctor before discontinuing use.

Quinapril side effects

Typical side effects from Quinapril include headaches, swollen joints or joint pain, and muscle aching, cramping or stiffness.

Quinapril may cause liver problems. Stomach pain or loss of appetite, pale stools or dark urine, unusual tiredness or weakness, or jaundice might be signs of a serious issue with the liver.

Quinapril may also cause kidney issues. Lower back or side pain, decreased urination or bloody urine, increased thirst, or swelling of any parts of the body are signs of kidney problems. Quinapril may also cause coughing.

This medication may increase the level of potassium in the blood, resulting in hyperkalemia. Symptoms of hyperkalemia include:

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach pain
• Confusion or nervousness
• Unusual tiredness or weakness
• Rapid or too slow of a heartbeat
• Difficult or labored breathing
• Numbness or tingling in the hands, feet or lips

Other severe side effects include:

• Blurred vision, enlarged pupils, light sensitivity
• Chest pain or tightness
• Sweating or cold, clammy skin
• Bleeding gums

Seek medical attention immediately if any of the above side effects occur.

In case of overdose, call the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222 . Information is also available online at https://www.poisonhelp.org/help.

Quinapril drug interactions

Discuss your medical history with your health care provider before taking Quinapril. Certain medications can interact negatively with Quinapril. Tell your doctor if you are taking diuretics, other medications for high blood pressure or pain, inflammation medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen, potassium supplements, salt substitutes or antibiotics.

Medical history

Women should inform their doctor if they wish to become pregnant or think they might be pregnant. There is a potential for harm to an unborn child. Use an effective form of birth control to keep from getting pregnant. If you think you have become pregnant while using this medication, tell your doctor right away.

Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions such as:

• Swelling of the face, arms, hands, legs or throat (Angioedema)
• Collagen vascular disease
• Kidney or liver disease
• Congestive heart failure
• Hyperkalemia
• Electrolyte or fluid imbalances

Other considerations when taking Quinapril

In addition to using this medication, treatment for your high blood pressure may include weight control and changes in the types of foods you eat, especially foods high in sodium (salt). Your doctor will tell you which of these is most important for you. You should check with your doctor before changing your diet.

Know how you react to the medication before you drive, use machines or do other things that could be dangerous. Because Quinapril lowers blood pressure, take care when getting up from a lying or sitting position. Dizziness, lightheadedness and fainting could occur.

If you feel dizzy, lie down so you do not faint. Sit for a few minutes before standing to prevent the dizziness from returning.

Take all other medicines your doctor has prescribed for high blood pressure and carefully follow your treatment plan. Lifestyle changes, such as a low-salt diet and maintaining a healthy weight, can also help lower blood pressure.