Accupril

Uses
Accupril (Quinapril) is indicated for treating patients who are suffering from high blood pressure (essential hypertension), to reduce the blood pressure, thereby lowering the risk of strokes and myocardial infarctions. Some patients may need to take other medicines in order to effectively control and treat their blood pressure. Another use for this drug is being used as an adjunct to treatment with other drugs for treating heart failure. This medicine is an ACE inhibitor (angiotensin converting enzyme), and its mode of action involves widening the blood vessels, which helps to contribute to a reduction in blood pressure.

Dosage and Administration
It is important to note that patients taking Accupril (Quinapril) will have a dosage regimen individualised. Patients undergoing monotherapy (without diuretics) may be instructed to start out with 10mg to 20mg per day. Based on the response to treatment (the doctor may need to measure the patient's blood pressure), adjustments to the dosage may be required, and this will take place at the discretion of the doctor, usually at 2 week intervals. The dosage regimen for patients who have been told to take diuretics, or who are treating other conditions is different, and the instructions of the doctor must be followed.

Side effects
Treatment with Accupril (Quinapril) may cause:

• Spinning sensation
• Pain in the abdomen
• Feeling more tired than usual
• Soreness that affects the back
• Inflammation affecting the nose

You should notify your doctor of any bothersome side effects that occur. In some cases, patients may experience severe reactions, which will need medical care immediately. Examples of this include a rapid increase in weight, symptoms of high potassium, fever, fainting, increased or decreased urination and other side effects which have not been listed here.

Precautions
It will be necessary for your doctor to schedule regular medical appointments during treatment, so that the function of your kidneys, as well as your blood pressure and potassium blood levels can be monitored.

If this medicine is taken during pregnancy, this could seriously damage the unborn child, and for this reason, it must never be taken by pregnant women, and it is also essential to ensure that a pregnancy does not occur while the medicine is being taken.

Seek immediate emergency medical attention if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch for, which may be indicative of a reaction, include skin rashes, hives, swelling of the face or limbs, trouble breathing, and trouble swallowing.

Always use Accupril (Quinapril) as you have been prescribed by your doctor. Never self-medicate or change your dosage without first consulting your doctor. The correct dosage can vary depending on your health, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.

This medication may not be safe for all patients. Before you begin using it always disclose the following to your doctor:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• If you suffer from any allergies.
• If you suffer from any other health conditions or illnesses.
• If you are using any other medicine (including all non-prescription).
• If you are using any supplements, vitamins, or herbal products of any kind.