ALTACE

Drug Uses
Altace is an angiotensin–converting enzyme inhibitor, used for treatment of high blood pressure and decreases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and death in certain patients. It may also be used to treat congestive heart disease following a heart attack or for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

How Taken
Altace may be taken with or without a meal. If you have difficulty swallowing the whole capsule, it can be opened and the contents sprinkled on a small amount (about 4 oz) of applesauce or mixed in half a glass (4 oz/120 ml) of water or apple juice. These mixtures may be stored in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours, however, it is best to eat or drink the entire mixture immediately after mixing. Consult your doctor regarding the dosage suitable for you.

Warnings/Precautions
Before taking Altace, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions, especially if you have allergies to medicines, foods, or other substances, especially if you are allergic to any ingredient in Altace or similar medicines (ACE inhibitors), or if you have a history of angioedema (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat) caused by an ACE inhibitor, if you have heart or blood vessel problems, liver problems, or kidney problems (e.g., kidney artery narrowing, dialysis, kidney transplant), if you have high blood potassium levels or low blood sodium levels, or are on a low sodium diet, if you have a severe autoimmune disease, lupus, scleroderma (a skin disease), or bone marrow depression, if you are planning to have surgery, if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant or are breast–feeding. Do not take Altace after the third month of pregnancy. It may cause injury or death to the fetus. If you become pregnant, contact your doctor promptly. It is not known if Altace is found in breast milk. Do not breast feed while taking Altace. Some medicines may interact with Altace. Therefore tell your doctor of all prescription or nonprescription medicine, herbal preparation, or dietary supplement that you are taking. Tell your doctor if a persistent, dry cough occurs. Recovery is rapid when the medicine is stopped. Dehydration, excessive sweating, or diarrhea may lead to a fall in blood pressure. Contact your health care provider at once if any of these occur. Tell your doctor any lightheadedness, especially during the first few days of taking Altace. If you experience fainting, you should talk with your doctor. Patients who take medicine for high blood pressure often feel tired or run down for a few weeks after starting treatment. Be sure to take your medicine even if you may not feel "normal." Tell your doctor if you develop any new symptoms. Check with your doctor before you use a salt substitute or a product that has potassium in it. Lab tests, including blood tests, may be performed while you use Altace. These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments. Altace is not indicated for use in children, safety and effectiveness in children have not been confirmed.

Missed Dose
If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember. However if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the Missed Dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Possible Side Effects
Some of the Possible Side Effects are- diarrhea, dizziness or lightheadedness when sitting up or standing, feeling of a whirling motion, headache, nausea, persistent dry cough, tiredness, vomiting, weakness. Contact your doctor if any of these or other side effects occur. If you experience any of the following serious side effects, you should seek medical attention immediately- allergic reactions (rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue), bruising or bleeding more easily, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, fainting, fever or sore throat, hoarseness, irregular or slow heartbeat, shortness of breath, stomach pain or tenderness, unusual tiredness or weakness, yellowing of the skin or eyes.

Storage
Store this medication at room temperature, between 59 – 86 °F (15 – 30 °C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light (not in the bathroom). Keep Altace out of the reach of children.

Overdose
If overdose is suspected seek medical attention immediately. Some of the symptoms of Altace overdose are- dizziness and weakness.

More Information
Altace may cause you to become more sensitive to the sunlight. Avoid the sun, sunlamps, or tanning booths until you know how you react to Altace. Use a sunscreen or wear protective clothing if you must be outside for more than a short time. Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. If your symptoms do not improve or if they worsen, contact your doctor. Altace may cause dizziness or lightheadedness. These effects may worsen if Altace is taken with alcohol. Use Altace with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to this drug.

Disclaimer
This is only general information, it does not cover all directions, drug integrations or precautions. You should not rely on it for any purpose, it does not contain any specific instructions for a particular patient. We disclaim all responsibility for the accuracy and reliability of this information. We`re not responsible for any damage.