Altace, sold generically as ramipril, is an ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme) inhibitor. The medication treats high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, and heart attacks.
The drug works for high blood pressure by helping the blood to move efficiently throughout the body. The blood pressure medication also helps blood flow for congestive heart failure patients. Altace reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke in people age 55 and older,
according to Everyday Health.
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Like other blood pressure drugs, Altace has possible side effects, some common or minor and others more serious.
According to Drugs.com, common side effects of Altace include:
• Fatigue or dizziness
• Coughing
• Headache
Immediate medical help is required if patients experience these allergic reactions:
• Breathing difficulty
• Swelling of the face, tongue, lips, or throat
• Severe stomach pain
• Hives
Other serious side effects include:
• Chest pain
• Heart palpitations
• Light sensitivity
• Lightheadedness or a feeling of passing out
• Frequent urination or little to no urination
• Flu-like symptoms that include sudden weakness, fever, chills, sore throat, mouth sores, painful swallowing, or skin sores
• Loss of movement, weakness, nausea, or unusual heart rate that occur from high potassium levels
• Anxiety and depression
• Drowsiness
• Convulsions
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Call a doctor immediately if experiencing these side effects; doctors can prescribe a different blood pressure medication if you're having negative reactions.
Alcohol should be avoided while taking Altace because it can increase side effects and lower blood pressure, Drugs.com notes. Ramipril could also interact with other medications and potassium supplements.
Patients need to consult their doctor about medical history and medications or supplements they are taking. It is especially important for women to contact a doctor if they become pregnant while taking Altace. The blood pressure drug could harm a developing fetus in the second and third trimesters, Everyday Health explains.
Doctors often prescribe the drug in low doses while gradually increasing the dose,
WebMD reports. Patients are urged to take the blood pressure medication as advised, even if feeling well. High blood pressure often does not have noticeable symptoms.
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