ALTACE (RAMIPRIL)

Altace Description

Altace or the generic Ramipril is an angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor drug that is prescribed to treat high blood pressure, also called hypertension. There are no symptoms that can indicate your blood pressure is high, so regular doctor visits are important as part of your annual exam. If you are not able to lower your pressure through a healthier eating habit, losing weight, keeping active, and no more smoking, your doctor can prescribe Altace to take along with a lifestyle change in order to reduce the risk of other health concerns that hypertension can cause.

How ACE Inhibitors Work to Lower Blood Pressure

The angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) is responsible for producing a chemical called angiotensin II. This chemical causes the muscles in the majority of your arteries to contract which results in the narrowing of these arteries, forcing your blood pressure to rise as your heart begins to work harder to pump blood to other areas of your body.

Altace works to relax arterial muscles by inhibiting the production of the angiotensin converting enzyme. Your heart will not have to work so hard as the blood and oxygen supply is increased and the risk of a heart attack or stroke is minimized. Altace will not cure hypertension, but it will help your body maintain a healthy blood flow.

Conditions Treated by Altace

Hypertension, coronary artery disease, and faulty heart valves can all result in congestive heart failure (CHF). If you have CHF, your doctor may prescribe Altace to help dilate your blood vessels to improve the blood flow. People in the early stages of congestive heart failure may not notice any health changes. As congestive heart failure progresses, you may become fatigued faster, have an increased need to urinate, and your ankles, feet, and legs start to swell with excess fluid. Early diagnosis provides a better outcome for your health, so do not ignore any signs that something may be wrong.

Before You Take Altace

Certain health conditions may prevent you from taking Altace safely so discuss your medical history with your doctor so it can be decided if Altace is right for your situation. Provide a list of any current OTC and Rx drugs you are taking and include herbal remedies and dietary or vitamin supplements as Altace or Ramipril could cause a negative interaction when combined with other medicine. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Important Things to Know About Altace

Drinking alcohol while taking Altace may enhance its blood pressure lowering effect, which can increase dizziness and may increase the risk of fainting. You should not take Altace if you are pregnant. If you become pregnant, you should stop taking Altace and contact your doctor right away. Keep Altace and other meds out of children’s reach and never share your Rx drugs with anyone.

Possible Side Effects of Altace

• Feeling faint or dizzy when standing up suddenly
• Sweating
• Blurred vision
• Headache