Altace (Ramipril)

Do’s

• Take Altace exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, with or without food, typically once or twice daily.
• Swallow the capsule whole if you can.
• If swallowing the capsule is difficult, open it and sprinkle the contents on cool applesauce (about 4 ounces) or mix it in half a glass of water or apple juice (4 ounces). Swallow or drink the entire mixture immediately.
• Take Altace regularly at the same time(s) each day for maximum benefit.
• Continue taking Altace even if you feel well, as high blood pressure often has no symptoms.
• Discuss any concerns about your condition or worsening blood pressure with your healthcare provider.
• Be aware that it may take several weeks to experience the full blood pressure-lowering effects of Altace.

Don'ts

• Don't take Altace differently than prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Don't skip doses or stop taking Altace abruptly.
• Don't take more Altace than prescribed.
• Don't open the capsule and sprinkle the contents on anything other than cool applesauce, water, or apple juice.
• Don't expect immediate results from Altace. It may take weeks to reach full effectiveness.
• Don't hesitate to talk to your healthcare provider if your high blood pressure isn't improving or worsening.

Common side effects of Altace may include:

• Dry and persistent cough
• Increased potassium levels in the blood
• Abdominal pain
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Rash
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Loss of taste
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Fainting
• Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet

Serious side effects of Altace are rare but may include:

• Nausea/vomiting that doesn't stop
• Yellowing of the eyes or skin
• Dark urine
• Severe stomach/abdominal pain
• Allergic reactions, such as rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing- Serious eye symptoms, such as sudden vision loss, blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain or swelling, or seeing halos around lights- Angioedema, a serious allergic reaction that causes swelling of the face, extremities, lips, tongue, glottis, and larynx
• High potassium levels
• Muscle weakness
• Slow/irregular heartbeat

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

Inform your healthcare provider if you have allergies to ramipril (Altace), other ACE inhibitors, or any ingredients in Altace.

Tell your healthcare provider about your medical history, especially:

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

Altace may cause dizziness. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or activities requiring alertness until you feel safe. Limit alcohol and marijuana use which can worsen dizziness.

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

Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you use (prescription, non-prescription, and herbal products) before surgery.

Altace 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 dizziness and potassium level increases caused by Altace.

Altace can harm an unborn baby. Discuss risks and benefits with your healthcare provider before pregnancy. If you become pregnant, stop taking Altace immediately and consult your healthcare provider. It is unknown if Altace passes into breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.