The following information is a summary about Altace. It is not intended to replace a doctor's instructions.
Why is this Altace medication prescribed?
Altace/Ramipril is used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. Altace decreases certain chemicals that tighten the blood vessels, so blood flows more smoothly and the heart can pump more efficiently.
This Altace medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or Altace pharmacist for more Altace information.
How should this Altace medicine be used?
Altace/Ramipril comes as a capsule to take by mouth. Altace is usually taken once or twice a day on an empty stomach, 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. Follow the Altace directions on your Altace prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or Altace pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Altace/ramipril exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of Altace or take Altace more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Altace/Ramipril controls high blood pressure and heart failure but does not cure them. Continue to take Altace/ramipril even if you feel well. Do not stop taking Altace/ramipril without talking to your doctor.
What special Altace precautions should I follow?
Before taking Altace/ramipril,
tell your doctor and Altace pharmacist if you are allergic to Altace/ramipril or any other drugs.
tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially diuretics ('water pills'), lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid), other medications for high blood pressure, potassium supplements, and vitamins.
tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart or kidney disease or diabetes.
if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking Altace/ramipril.
What special Altace dietary instructions should I follow?
Talk to your doctor before using salt substitutes containing potassium. If your doctor prescribes a low-salt or low-sodium diet, follow these directions carefully.
What side effects can this Altace medication cause?
Although side effects from Altace/ramipril are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these Altace symptoms are severe or do not go away:
dizziness or lightheadedness
headache
chest pain
sore throat
fever
diarrhea
upset stomach
excessive tiredness
cough
unusual bruising
If you experience any of the following Altace symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, arms, or legs
difficulty breathing or swallowing
fainting
rash
yellowing of the skin or eyes
Altace Overdose
Symptoms of Altace overdose may include:
lightheadedness
fainting
Other uses for this Altace medicine
This Altace medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more Altace information.
In case of Altace emergency/overdose
In case of Altace overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.
What should I do if I forget a Altace dose?
Take the missed Altace dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next Altace dose, skip the missed Altace dose and continue your regular Altace dosing schedule. Do not take a double Altace dose to make up for a missed one.
What other Altace information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests before and during treatment to check your response to Altace.
Do not let anyone else take your Altace medication. Ask your Altace pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your Altace prescription.
What storage conditions are needed for Altace?
Keep Altace in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store Altace at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any Altace medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your Altace medication.
