Accupril (Quinapril)

Do's

• Accupril is used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure, and the appropriate dosage depends on the specific condition and its severity.
• Take Accupril exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, usually once or twice a day.
• Take it with or without food, but avoid high-fat meals as they can affect absorption.
• Take it at the same time(s) each day for best results.
• Continue taking Accupril even if you feel well. High blood pressure often has no symptoms.
• Inform your healthcare provider if your condition doesn't improve or worsen.

Don'ts

• Don't take more Accupril than prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Don't stop taking Accupril without consulting your healthcare provider. Abruptly stopping can be dangerous.
• Don't crush, chew, or break the tablets. Swallow them whole.
• Don't take any other medications or supplements without telling your healthcare provider about potential interactions. This includes over-the-counter medications and herbal remedies.

A healthcare provider will determine the correct starting dose and monitor your response to adjust it as needed. This personalized approach helps manage potential side effects and ensure effectiveness.

Common Side Effects:

• Cough
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Taste disturbance or loss of taste
• Rash
• Hair loss or thinning
• Dry mouth or throat
• Confusion or nervousness
• Back pain
• Impotence

Serious Side Effects:

• Allergic reactions, such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (angioedema)
• Severe dizziness or fainting
• Signs of kidney problems, including decreased urination, swelling of the hands or feet, or unexplained weight gain
• Signs of liver problems, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or persistent nausea and vomiting

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Accupril,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Talk to your healthcare provider if you have any allergies, especially to ACE inhibitors.

Inform your healthcare provider of your medical history, particularly if you have:

• A history of allergic reactions, including swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (angioedema).
• Undergone blood filtering procedures.
• High levels of potassium in your blood.
• Liver disease.

Accupril may cause dizziness, so avoid activities requiring alertness like driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.

Be cautious of dehydration due to severe sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting. Drink plenty of fluids unless advised otherwise by your healthcare provider.

Inform your healthcare provider or dentist about all medications you take before undergoing surgery.

Accupril may increase your potassium levels. Consult your healthcare provider before taking potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium.

Older adults may be more sensitive to side effects.

Accupril can harm an unborn baby. Do not become pregnant while taking it. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. Accupril passes into breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.