Accuretic (Quinapril/HCTZ)

What is Accuretic?

Accuretic is a combination of Hydrochlorothiazide and Quinapril. While hydrochlorothiazide is a water pill (thiazide diuretic), quinapril belongs to a category of drugs called ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme) inhibitors.

What is Accuretic used for?

Accuretic is indicated for the treatment of hypertension or high blood pressure. Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent heart attacks, strokes and kidney problems.

How does Accuretic work?

Accuretic is a combination of two medicines, hydrochlorothiazide and quinapril. Hydrochlorothiazide works by increasing the amount of urine made by the body, thereby removing extra salt and water from the body. Quinapril works by relaxing the blood vessels so that the blood flows more easily.

How to use Accuretic

Use Accuretic in the manner prescribed by the doctor. Read the instruction leaflet very carefully before taking the drug. Do not take the medicine for longer period or in larger amount than prescribed.

The medicine is usually taken once daily with a glass full of water. It can be taken with or without food. It is advised to avoid taking Accuretic within four hours of bedtime so as to avoid getting up to urinate. Drink plenty of fluids in order to avoid dehydration.

Accuretic warnings and precautions

Do not take Accuretic if you are allergic to any of its ingredients. The medication may contain certain ingredients which are inactive and may cause allergic reactions or other problems.

Before using Accuretic, share your medical history with your doctor, especially if it consists of liver problems, kidney disease, untreated mineral or salt imbalance, gout, diabetes, allergy to sulfa drugs, or lupus.

Consult your doctor before taking any type of liquids. Avoid getting overheated or dehydrated, especially during hot weather conditions or while exercising. Accuretic may also cause dizziness when a person gets up immediately after sitting or lying down. Therefore, you should get up slowly after taking your Accuretic dose.

Avoid consuming alcohol and potassium or salt substitutes. 

Pregnant and lactating women should not take this medication as it is known to cause birth defects and may even harm a nursing infant.

What do I do if I have missed a Accuretic dose?

If you have missed a Accuretic dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue the routine.

What do I do if I have taken a Accuretic overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Accuretic, consult your doctor right away.

Accuretic interactions

Some drugs are known to interact with Accuretic when used in tandem with it. The doctor should be informed of any other medication that you are taking, especially if you are taking drugs like steroids, blood pressure medications, lithium, cholestyramine or colestipol, gold injections which are used to treat arthritis, digoxin, insulin or orally taken diabetes medications, tetracycline antibiotics, or NSAIDs.

Do not start taking any new medicine without consulting your doctor.

Accuretic side effects

Side effects from Accuretic include weak pulse, slow heart rate, tingling, weakness in muscles or limp feeling, leg discomfort, increased or decreased frequency/ amount of urination, uneven heart rate, confusion, drowsiness, vomiting, nausea, dry mouth, restlessness, jaundice, body ache, chills, fever, flu symptoms, swelling, increase in weight, and breathlessness. If you experience any of these side effects, contact your doctor immediately.

Runny nose, insomnia, constipation, diarrhea, mild skin rashes, upset stomach, increased sweating, dizziness, headache, fatigue, muscle pain, cough, and headache are some less serious side effects of Accuretic.