Accupril (Quinapril)

Accupril (quinapril hydrochloride) is an ACE inhibitor medication used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. It works by blocking a process in the body that tightens blood vessels, allowing them to relax and making it easier for the heart to pump blood. The medication comes as an oral tablet and can be prescribed alone or alongside other medications to manage cardiovascular conditions.

Directions

Quinapril is taken by mouth, typically once or twice daily, with or without food. For high blood pressure, the usual starting dose is 10 mg or 20 mg once daily, which may be changed based on blood pressure response.

Patients already taking diuretics should start with a lower dose of 5 mg. For heart failure, treatment typically begins at 5 mg once or twice daily. The maximum recommended dose is 80 mg daily, which may be given as a single dose or divided into two doses.

Swallow tablets whole and keep consistent timing each day for the best results. Missing doses may reduce effectiveness, so take a missed dose as soon as it's remembered unless it's nearly time for the next scheduled dose.

Ingredients

The active ingredient in Accupril is quinapril.

Cautions

Before using this medication, you may want to consult a healthcare provider about the following:

• Any existing health conditions
• Any allergies
• A list of all medications currently being taken
• Accupril may cause angioedema, which is swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat that can block breathing. Stop the medication and seek emergency care if swelling or trouble breathing occurs.
• Blood pressure may drop too much. Accupril can sometimes cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting, especially when starting treatment or if you are dehydrated.
• Medications like Accupril can harm or even cause death to an unborn baby, especially during the second or third trimester. Contact a healthcare provider immediately if you become pregnant.
• Kidney function may change. Some people may develop worsening kidney function while taking Accupril, particularly those with kidney disease or heart failure.
• High potassium levels can occur. Accupril may raise potassium levels in the blood, especially in people with kidney problems or those taking potassium supplements.
• Persistent dry cough may develop. A common side effect of ACE inhibitors like Accupril is a long-lasting dry cough that usually goes away after stopping the medication.
• Rare but serious liver problems have been reported. Stop taking the medication and seek medical care if you develop yellowing of the skin or eyes, which may indicate liver injury.
• Tell healthcare providers before surgery. Accupril may affect blood pressure during surgery or anesthesia, so inform your doctor if you are taking this medication.
• Certain medications can interact. Diuretics, potassium supplements, lithium, NSAIDs, and some other medications may interact with Accupril and increase side effects.
• Breastfeeding requires caution. Accupril can pass into breast milk, so discuss risks and benefits with your healthcare provider if you are nursing.

Contraindications

Avoid taking or using this medication if any of the following apply:

• Hypersensitivity to quinapril or any ingredient of the product
• History of angioedema related to previous ACE inhibitor therapy
• Hereditary or idiopathic angioedema
• Pregnancy (second and third trimesters)
• Combined use with aliskiren in people with diabetes
• Combined use with neprilysin inhibitors or within 36 hours of discontinuing such treatment
• Combined use with aliskiren in people with kidney problems

Side Effects

Common side effects of Accupril include:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Dry cough

These side effects are usually mild and temporary as the body adjusts to the medication. Some people may also experience nausea, vomiting, abdominal discomfort, or diarrhea. Dizziness may occur more often when starting treatment or after dose changes.

More serious side effects are rare but possible. Accupril can sometimes cause low blood pressure, kidney problems, or high potassium levels. Rarely, it may trigger a severe allergic reaction called angioedema, which causes swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat and can be life-threatening. Seek immediate medical care if you develop swelling of the face or throat, trouble breathing, or severe dizziness.