Taking ACE Inhibitors
The name of my ACE inhibitor is:
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Your doctor has prescribed an ACE inhibitor. This medication opens up your blood vessels and decreases resistance. This allows your blood to flow more easily and makes your heart's work easier. This sheet gives you tips for taking your ACE inhibitor.
Take your medication at the same time each day.
It gives you more energy to do the things you enjoy.
It helps you stay out of the hospital.
It helps you live longer.
Tips to Help You
Follow the fact sheet that comes with your medication. It tells you when and how to take it. Ask for a sheet if you don’t get one.
Have a routine for taking your medication. Take it at the same time each day. A watch with an alarm can help.
Take your medication at least 1 hour before you eat, if you are taking captopril or moexipril, as described in the manufacturer's instructions, or 2 hours after you eat. You may take all other ACE inhibitors at any time, according to your doctor's instructions.
Do not change the dose or stop taking your medication, unless your doctor tells you to. It may take a few weeks for you to feel that the medication is working.
When to Call Your Doctor
You have diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or you are sweating. These can cause loss of water (dehydration) and low blood pressure.
You have a dry, hacking cough or a sore throat.
You feel dizzy or faint, or have a headache.
You have a fever or chills, trouble breathing or swallowing, or swelling in your face, mouth, arms, lower legs, ankles, or feet. These may be signs of an allergic reaction.
You have any other unusual symptoms.