ACCUPRIL (QUINAPRIL)

Accupril Can Help Lower Blood Pressure

Accupril or generic Quinapril is prescribed to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and comes in a pill form to be taken orally. When you have high blood pressure, the force of the blood against the inner walls of your blood vessels increases to the point where it can damage those vessels and lead to other health risks. Unless you are in hypertensive crisis, you will not even be aware that your blood pressure is damaging your blood vessels. This is why regular check-ups are important so your doctor can inform you if you are at risk. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

How Accupril Works in Your Body

As an angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor drug, taking Accupril (Quinapril) as directed will inhibit the angiotensin-converting enzyme in your body that naturally constricts your blood vessels. The blocking of the angiotensin-converting enzyme will allow your blood vessels to open up, leading to a decrease in your blood pressure. The widening of your blood vessels will also mean that your heart will not have to work as hard to pump blood throughout your body.

Accupril allows for better circulation and reduced cardiovascular strain. In doing so, it also decreases the associated risk for heart attacks and strokes. Accupril may also be prescribed to treat heart failure or to protect the kidneys from harm due to diabetes.

Are You at Risk for Hypertension?

High blood pressure does not have any symptoms that will alert you to the fact you could be in danger as your heart strains to supply a proper flow of oxygen rich blood to the rest of your tissues and organs. Risk factors for becoming hypertensive include being overweight, high salt intake, low calcium intake, stress, and a family history of high blood pressure. If you are aware of these risks, you can be proactive and start eating healthier, quit smoking, exercise to lose weight, and consume less alcohol to avoid being surprised with a diagnosis of hypertension and the need for long-term medication.

Before You Take Accupril

Do not start taking Accupril until you let your doctor know about any circulatory disorders or connective tissue problems in your health record. Also, be sure to tell them if you have a history of kidney disease, liver disease, or diabetes. You should not take Accupril if you are pregnant or intend to become pregnant, or if you are breast-feeding. Tell your doctor about any OTC or Rx drugs you take, including herbal remedies and dietary or vitamin supplements to determine if Accupril is safe for you to take.

Precautions to Be Aware of When Taking Accupril

Until you know how Accupril will affect you, avoid driving, operating machinery, or performing any task that requires your full attention. Do not start, stop, or change your dosage of any medications without talking to your doctor first as the expected performance of Accupril may change.

Possible Side Effects of Accupril

• Abdominal and muscle pain
• Coughing
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Nausea, vomiting, and indigestion
• Fatigue