Written by Dr Kim Langdon, MD
Information last reviewed 07/15/19
Ramipril (Altace) is a medication used to treat high blood pressure and falls into the class of drugs called angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. Ramipril begins to work within just 1 hour and is eliminated by the body within 13-17 hours. Ramipril can also be used for:
Ramipril is a type of antihypertensive drug known as an ACE inhibitor. It works by interfering with the conversion of a substance called angiotensin I into angiotensin II. Angiotensin II is partly responsible for the constriction (narrowing) of the blood vessels. By blocking the conversion of angiotensin, Ramipril helps to prevent this narrowing of the blood vessels, allowing them to relax and widen, lowering the blood pressure. But Ramipril also helps reduce blood pressure in another way too. Ramipril reduces the production of a hormone called aldosterone. Aldosterone encourages the body to retain water and salt, which increases blood pressure. So by reducing aldosterone, Ramipril lowers blood pressure further.
Ramipril starts working 1 to 2 hours after it's taken, and the effect lasts up to 24 hours.
Ramipril is very effective at lowering blood pressure. Individual effect may vary per person.
The active ingredient in Ramipril is ramipril and ramiprilat. Ramipril tablets are available in 1.25 mg, 2.5 mg, 5 mg or 10 mg dosages. Ramipril works by blocking the conversion of a substance called angiotensin I into angiotensin II. This helps to stop the blood vessels from being constricted, allowing them to relax and widen, reducing blood pressure.
The inactive ingredients in Ramipril are: pregelatinized starch NF, cellulose, gelatin, sodium stearyl fumarate, and titanium dioxide (please note, inactive ingredients can vary between manufacturers).
In rare cases, Ramipril can cause a severe allergic reaction in people. A severe allergic reaction presents as facial swelling, trouble breathing, rash/hives and dizziness. If you notice a severe allergic reaction shortly after taking ramipril, please seek emergency medical attention right away. If you have previously had a severe allergic reaction to this medication, please do not take it again and let your doctor know.
Ramipril comes in 4 strengths
The dose for Ramipril depends upon which condition you are trying to treat. For high blood pressure, you should initially take 2.5 mg tablets daily (or 1.5mg daily if prescribed with a diuretic). Following this, your doctor may increase your dose up to 20mg a day. Often your Ramipril is taken as a single dose, but it may be possible to divide this dose over the course of the day. Speak to your doctor about your options and always follow their advice when taking medication.
Ramipril can also be used in different doses for the treatment of heart failure and to reduce the risk of heart attacks or strokes. The prescribing doctor will give you directions for use.
Ramipril should be taken whole. Alternatively, you may open the capsule and mix the contents with 120 ml of water, apple juice, or applesauce.
If you are within 12 hours of your dose, take the missed dose. However, if you are more than 12 hours out, just take the next dose when it would be due. Do not take 2 doses at once or make up for a missed dose.
Common side effects, occurring in more than 10% of people are:
Less common side effects, affecting less than 10% of people are:
The following drugs are known to interact with Ramipril. Therefore, they should be avoided if taking Ramipril. If you are taking any drugs, but especially those listed here, you should inform the prescribing physician, so they can ensure your treatments are as safe as possible.
Ramipril is not recommended for people with the following conditions:
Ramipril also has kidney protective effects by dilating the small arteries of the kidneys.
In the morning or in divided doses 12 hours apart. Always follow the advice of the prescribing physician.
It reduces the pressure against the heart walls and reduces chronic damage to those walls and blood vessel walls
It reduces the pressure against the walls of the heart and dilates the coronary arteries that cause angina seen in ischemic heart disease.
Consult your doctor. It can increase the risk of allergic reactions to Allopurinol but if you are taking allopurinol already without a reaction, adding Ramipril may have no effect. However, another ACE Inhibitor should be considered.
Disclaimer: This is not medical advice. You and your physician will determine if and how you should take any medication prescribed to you following a medical consultation.
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