Captopril

Information About Captopril

Uses of Captopril

Captopril is commonly used to treat diabetic kidney disease, heart attack, heart failure, and hypertension

How Captopril Works

Captopril increases plasma renin activity and reduces aldosterone secretion by competitively inhibiting the Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) which prevents the conversion of Angiotensin I to Angiotensin II.

Side Effects of Captopril

Hypotension, Dry cough, Hyperkalemia, Angioedema, Proteinuria, Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Constipation, Abdominal pain, Renal impairment

Authorship

Written By

Dr Mohd Ramzdhan Bin Mohd Masdar

MD (Crimea State Medical University)

Reviewed By

Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli

MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Captopril Related Warnings

Alcohol Not Advisable

Taking alcohol with this medication is not advised as it may potentiate one of the side effects of Captopril which is hypotension.

Pregnancy Not Safe

Treatment with captopril should be discontinued immedietly if it was started in pregnant mothers prior to pregnancy. This medication also should not be started in pregnant women or women who are planning to conceive unless it is clearly proven that Captopril is essential and the benefits outweigh the risk.

Lactation Not Advisable

Treatment with Captopril in breastfeeding mother is not recommended unless necessary. Limited data shows a very low concentration of captopril is excreted in breastmilk, however, due to limited studies, there is still a hypothetical risk towards the breastfeeding infant.

Driving Not advisable

It is not recommended to drive while taking this medication as the side effects may reduce your ability to drive and operating machines. Only drive if you are feeling well.

Kidney Use With Care

Dose adjustment of captopril must be made according to the patient's creatinine clearance in patients with renal impairment.

Liver Use With Care

Captopril as one of ACE inhibitor drugs may rarely cause hepatic necrosis. The patient who develops signs of liver failure should be discontinued from this medication.