CAPOTEN

Drug Name: CAPOTEN

CAPOTEN DESCRIPTION:
CAPTOPRIL - ORAL (KAP-toe-pril)

COMMON CAPOTEN BRAND NAME(S):
Capoten

CAPOTEN SIDE EFFECTS:
Dizziness, headache, diarrhea, constipation, loss of appetite, nausea, loss of taste, flushing or fatigue may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. CAPOTEN can increase sensitivity to sunlight. To avoid dizziness and lightheadedness when rising from a seated or lying position, get up slowly. Inform your doctor if you develop: chest pain, tingling of the hands or feet, yellowing of the eyes or skin, dry cough, persistent sore throat. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE CAPOTEN:
CAPOTEN: Captopril should be taken on an empty stomach, one hour before or two hours after a meal. Take CAPOTEN exactly as prescribed. Try to take it at the same time each day. Do not stop taking CAPOTEN without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is abruptly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased. Consult your doctor before using salt substitutes or low salt milk. It is important to continue taking CAPOTEN even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick.

CAPOTEN WARNING:
CAPOTEN can cause serious fetal harm if used during the last six months of pregnancy. If pregnancy occurs, stop using CAPOTEN and immediately contact your physician.

CAPOTEN USES:
Captopril belongs to a group of drugs called "ACE inhibitors." ACE inhibitors prevent certain enzymes in the body from constricting blood vessels. This helps to lower blood pressure and makes the heart beat stronger. CAPOTEN is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure), heart failure and kidney disease in certain diabetic patients.

CAPOTEN PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: high blood levels of potassium, kidney problems, liver problems, salt-restricted diet, swelling (angioedema), heart problems, allergies (especially drug allergies). This medicine may make you more prone to sunburn. Wear protective clothing and a sunscreen. Limit your intake of alcohol and avoid overheating because this can aggravate dizziness and lightheadedness. CAPOTEN should be used only when clearly needed during the first three months of pregnancy. It is not recommended for use during the last six months of the pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Captopril passes into breast milk. Because the possibility exists that a nursing infant may be harmed, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

CAPOTEN DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Inform your doctor about all the medicine you use (both prescription and nonprescription), especially of: lithium, potassium supplements, potassium-sparing water pills, anti-inflammatory medicine (NSAID like ibuprofen). Avoid "stimulant" drugs that may increase your heart rate such as decongestants or caffeine. Decongestants can be found in cough-and-cold medicines. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

CAPOTEN OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include dizziness and weakness.

CAPOTEN NOTES:
It is important to have your blood pressure checked regularly while taking CAPOTEN. Learn how to monitor your blood pressure. Discuss this with your doctor.

MISSED CAPOTEN DOSE:
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

CAPOTEN STORAGE:
Store at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.