Capoten (Captopril)

What is Capoten?

Capoten belongs to a category of drugs called ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme) inhibitors.

What is Capoten used for?

Capoten is indicated for the treatment of hypertension or high blood pressure. Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent heart attacks, strokes and kidney problems (caused by diabetes). The medication may also help improve survival chances after an acute heart attack. When used with other drugs, such as digoxin or water pills (diuretics), Capoten can also help treat congestive heart failure.

How does Capoten work?

Capoten works by relaxing blood vessels and causing them to widen so that the blood flows more easily.

How to use Capoten

Use Capoten 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 twice or thrice daily (as directed by the doctor) with a glass full of water. Take the medicine on an empty stomach - one hour before a meal. Remember to take the medicine at the same time each day. Drink plenty of fluids in order to avoid dehydration.

Capoten warnings and precautions

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

Before using Capoten, share your medical history with your doctor, especially if it consists of kidney or liver disease, heart disease, congestive heart failure, high potassium levels in the blood, connective tissue disorder (e.g., Marfan Syndrome, lupus, scleroderma, rheumatoid arthritis or Sjogren’s syndrome), severe dehydration or blood vessel disease.

Avoid consuming alcohol or using salt substitutes/ potassium supplements while being treated with this medication.

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

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

If you have missed a Capoten 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 Capoten overdose?

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

Capoten interactions

Some drugs are known to interact with Capoten when used in tandem with it. The doctor should be informed of all the medications that you are taking, especially if you are taking drugs that weaken the immune system, lithium, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs such as celecoxib, ibuprofen, indomethacin), potassium-sparing water pills (diuretics such as amiloride, spironolactone, triamterene), gold injections, potassium supplements (e.g., potassium chloride) or salt substitutes. A very serious reaction may occur if you are getting injections for bee/wasp sting allergy (desensitization) with Capoten.

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

Capoten side effects

Side effects from Capoten includes serious (possibly fatal) liver problems, yellowing of eyes or skin, dark urine, stomach or abdominal pain, persistent fatigue or nausea, change in the amount of urine, signs of infection, fainting, decreased sexual ability, fast or pounding heartbeat. If you experience any of these side effects, contact your doctor immediately.

Dizziness, light-headedness, loss of taste, dry cough, blurred vision, loss of appetite, sleep problems (insomnia), dry mouth, sores in the mouth or on the lips, nausea, diarrhea, constipation or mild skin rash or itching are some less serious side effects of Capoten.