Altace HCT (Ramipril/hydrochlorothiazide)

Do’s

• Take Altace HCT exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, typically once daily. Swallow the tablet whole. Do not crush, chew, or break it.
• Take Altace HCT regularly, at the same time each day, to maintain consistent levels of medication in your body and achieve optimal blood pressure control.
• Combine Altace HCT with a healthy diet, exercise, and weight management for optimal blood pressure control.
• Regularly monitor your blood pressure at home as directed by your healthcare provider.
• Tell your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you take to avoid potential interactions.
• Discuss any side effects you experience with your healthcare provider.
• Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, especially if you experience side effects like diarrhea or vomiting.

Don'ts

• Don't change your dose or stop taking Altace HCT without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Don't take Altace HCT past its expiration date.
• Don’t skip doses. Try not to miss doses, but if you do, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Don't double your dose to catch up.
• Avoid excessive sweating activities (e.g., saunas, hot yoga) due to the potential risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.
• Avoid/Limit alcohol consumption and consult your healthcare provider about foods that may interact with Altace HCT (e.g., potassium-rich foods, licorice).
• Do not use Altace HCT if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

Common side effects:

• Dry, tickly cough
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Fatigue or tiredness
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea or stomach upset
• Muscle cramps or weakness
• Increased sensitivity to sunlight
• Skin rash or itching

Serious side effects (rare, but may require medical attention):

• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (signs of an allergic reaction)
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
• Chest pain or tightness
• Irregular heartbeat
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (signs of liver problems)
• Severe stomach pain
• Decreased urination or blood in the urine
• Signs of low blood pressure (such as dizziness, fainting, or blurred vision)

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

Inform your healthcare provider if you are allergic to ramipril, other ACE inhibitors (benazepril), hydrochlorothiazide, or any ingredients in Altace HCT Tablets.

Disclose any pre-existing medical conditions to your healthcare provider before using Altace HCT Tablets, especially:

• History of allergic reaction with swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (angioedema)
• History of blood filtering procedures (LDL apheresis, dialysis)
• High blood potassium levels

Altace HCT Tablets may cause dizziness. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or activities requiring alertness until effects subside. Limit alcohol and marijuana use while taking this medication.

Altace HCT Tablets may cause severe sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting, leading to dehydration and dizziness. Inform your healthcare provider if you experience these symptoms. Drink plenty of fluids unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise.

Tell your healthcare provider about all medications you take, including Altace HCT Tablets, before having surgery.

Altace HCT Tablets may increase your potassium levels. Consult your healthcare provider before using potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium.

Older adults may be more sensitive to side effects like dizziness and increased potassium levels.

Altace HCT Tablets can harm an unborn baby and should not be used during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider immediately.

It is unknown if ramipril or hydrochlorothiazide passes into breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.