Description
Ramipril is an ACE inhibitor. It blocks an enzyme the body uses to make a hormone that narrows blood vessels, so the vessels relax and blood pressure falls, and the heart has less work to do. It is licensed for high blood pressure, for heart failure, for kidney disease with protein in the urine, and to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in people at increased cardiovascular risk.
The capsules are taken once daily, at about the same time each day, and are swallowed whole with water rather than chewed. Your prescriber will usually start at a low dose and increase it in steps. A dry, tickly cough is the best known side effect and does not settle while the medicine is continued. Swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat is rare but needs urgent medical attention.
Blood tests check kidney function and blood salts. This medicine must not be taken in pregnancy.
- ACE inhibitor for high blood pressure, heart failure and cardiovascular risk
- Available in 1.25mg, 2.5mg, 5mg and 10mg capsules, taken once daily
- Swallow the capsules whole with water
- The dose is usually started low and increased in steps
- A persistent dry cough is a recognised effect of this class
- Not for use in pregnancy; tell your prescriber if you may be pregnant
