Ramipril: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

What is ramipril?

Ramipril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor which is used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. Doctors also prescribe ramipril to treat patients who have had prior heart attacks to improve their survival rate. This antihypertensive medication can prevent future strokes, kidney problems, heart attacks, and the risk of death associated with these. Ramipril is a prescription medication and comes in the form of tablets, capsules, and liquid (for swallowing).

What are the uses of ramipril?

Ramipril is an antihypertensive medication. The uses of ramipril are to:

  • Treat high blood pressure
  • Lower the risk of stroke, heart attack, or death in high-risk groups
  • Treat heart failure in patients who have had previous occurrences of heart attack

This medication can be taken as a combination therapy with medications like thiazide diuretics for treating high blood pressure. Doctors may also prescribe ramipril for uses not covered by this guide.

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    What are the side effects of ramipril?

    Common side effects of ramipril include:

    • Weakness or tiredness
    • Dizziness 
    • Chest pain
    • Nausea
    • Cough
    • Diarrhea

    Some serious side effects are:

    • Low blood pressure
    • Allergic reaction
    • Swelling or edema 
    • Liver problems
    • Low white blood cell count 
    • High potassium levels 
    • Worsened kidney function

    There might be other possible side effects of ramipril use not mentioned in this list. If you notice persistent or particularly concerning side effects, take immediate precautions by consulting your doctor. You can also speak to our experts at Yashoda Hospitals for advice on your symptoms and dosage.

    What is Ramipril

    Uses of Ramipril

    Side effects of Ramipril

    Disclaimer: The information provided herein is accurate, updated and complete as per the best practices of the Company. Please note that this information should not be treated as a replacement for physical medical consultation or advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy and the completeness of the information so provided. The absence of any information and/or warning to any drug shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance of the Company. We do not take any responsibility for the consequences arising out of the aforementioned information and strongly recommend you for a physical consultation in case of any queries or doubts.

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    Frequently Asked Questions about Ramipril

    To control blood pressure, your physician will prescribe antihypertensive drugs like ramipril. In some cases, patients have developed gout due to using antihypertensive category drugs. The risk of gout also increases with the type of medication prescribed, like: Hypertensive drugs such as diuretics Beta-blockers ACE inhibitors Angiotensin II receptor blockers

    Ramipril use can lead to persistent, dry, or irritating cough. Usually, generic cough medicine cannot help reduce ramipril-induced cough. Consult your doctor in this case. In some patients, the cough resolves on its own. Generally, it disappears in 1–4 weeks after stopping ramipril use. However, it may take months to completely vanish in some patients.

    No, ramipril is not a nitrate drug. Nitrate drugs are used to treat or prevent heart pain (chest pain or angina). Ramipril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor used in cases of hypertension to relax and widen the blood vessels. However, using nitrates for treating chest pain may affect the mechanism of ramipril.

    Yes. Ramipril is safe and effective for high blood pressure and heart failure patients. This lipophilic ACE inhibitor can be taken once daily. You can safely consume ramipril for a longer duration, where it also works better. However, get regular blood tests done, as indiscriminate ramipril use for longer periods will harm kidney function.

    Yes, you may take Viagra (sildenafil citrate) while consuming ramipril for hypertension. Certain blood pressure medications lead to erectile dysfunction. Viagra also adds to ramipril’s effectiveness in reducing blood pressure. However, consult your doctor if you notice signs of extremely low blood pressure like fainting, dizziness, flushing, headaches, or rapid heart rate.

    Yes. Ramipril has a serious side effect that affects kidney function. It decreases angiotensin II levels and increases bradykinin levels – thus enlarging the arterioles. However, ramipril also inhibits the platelet-derived growth factor-induced reproduction of glomerulus cells present in the kidney. These glomerular cells have a significant role in renal filtration. Therefore, long-term consumption of ramipril worsens kidney functioning.

    No. Both ramipril and diuretics are blood pressure medications. However, ramipril is an ACE inhibitor that works by relaxing and dilating blood vessels for better circulation to the body. Hydrochlorothiazide or thiazide diuretics help your body by drawing away extra salt and water from it and increasing the amount of urine.

    You should not consume ramipril if any of these conditions apply to you: Allergy to ramipril Planning for pregnancy; are pregnant or breastfeeding Low blood pressure A recent episode of diarrhea or vomiting Existing heart, liver, or kidney issues Undergoing dialysis or other blood filtration process Diabetic Have blood problems like neutropenia Planning for surgery Are on a low-salt diet

    No, ramipril does not belong to the statin category. Ramipril is an ACE inhibitor. Statins, like simvastatin, are cholesterol-reducing drugs. Both statins and ACE inhibitors are options for treating and preventing cardiovascular diseases. Doctors may prescribe a combination of the two to treat patients with blood pressure or other cardiovascular issues.

    No. Conversely, ramipril can worsen kidney function if used for a longer time. Speak to your doctor if you notice decreased frequency or amount of urine; bloody urine; increased thirst; swelling on face, fingers, or lower legs; weight gain; or increased blood pressure. These might be symptoms of serious kidney disease.

    Speak to our team at Yashoda Hospitals for speedy and expert medical advice and services. Let our experts answer your queries regarding dosage, precautions, and side effects of taking ramipril.