Monopril (Fosinopril)

Do’s

• Take Monopril exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, usually once or twice daily, with or without food.
• Take Monopril consistently at the same time(s) each day for best results.
• Continue taking Monopril even if you feel well, as high blood pressure often has no noticeable symptoms.
• Inform your healthcare provider if your condition worsens or your blood pressure remains high or increases despite taking Monopril.

Don'ts

• Don't take more Monopril than prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Don't skip doses or stop taking Monopril without talking to your healthcare provider first.
• Don't take Monopril with antacids containing aluminum or magnesium within 2 hours of each other, as they can affect absorption.

Common side effects:

• Headache
• Cough
• Dizziness
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Increased potassium levels
• Sexual dysfunction
• Abnormal liver tests

Serious side effects that may require immediate medical attention include:

• Angioedema: A serious allergic reaction that causes swelling around the throat and tongue
• Impairment of kidney function, especially in patients with severe heart failure or kidney disease
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Lack of energy
• Pain in the upper right part of the stomach
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes
• Flu-like symptoms with a rash, red or purple rash turning into blisters, or peeling of the skin

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

A serious reaction may occur if you receive injections for bee/wasp sting allergy while taking Monopril. Disclose any allergies you have to Fosinopril, other ACE inhibitors, or other medication ingredients.

Inform your healthcare provider about any past allergic reactions, especially those involving swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (angioedema).

Discuss any blood filtering procedures (like LDL apheresis, or dialysis) you have undergone.

Inform your healthcare provider if you have high blood potassium levels.

Monopril may cause dizziness. Avoid activities requiring alertness (driving, operating machinery) until you feel safe. Limit alcohol and marijuana use which can worsen these effects.

Severe sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting can lead to dehydration and dizziness. Inform your healthcare provider if you experience these. Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise.

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

Consult your healthcare provider before using potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium, as Monopril may increase your potassium levels.

Be aware that older adults may be more sensitive to side effects like dizziness and increased potassium levels.

Monopril can harm an unborn baby. Do not use Monopril if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Discuss birth control methods with your healthcare provider. Seek immediate medical attention if you become pregnant while taking Monopril.

Monopril passes into breast milk. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding.

Keep track of all medications you take (prescription, non-prescription, and herbal products). Share a drug Interaction list with your healthcare provider. This allows them to identify potential interactions with Monopril. Avoid medication adjustments without consulting your healthcare provider. Never start, stop, or change the dosage of any medications on your own. Monopril can interact with certain medications, including:

• Aliskiren
• Certain immune system-suppressing medications (e.g., everolimus, sirolimus)
• Lithium
• Medications that may increase potassium levels (examples provided)
• Sacubitril

Some medications can raise blood pressure or worsen heart failure. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you use, especially cough-and-cold products, diet aids, or NSAIDs (ibuprofen/naproxen).

Continue taking low-dose aspirin for specific medical reasons (like heart attack or stroke prevention) as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Monopril may affect certain lab tests. Inform laboratory personnel and all your healthcare provider that you use this medication.