Captopril
Uses of Captopril
Captopril is commonly used to treat Diabetic Kidney Disease, Heart Attack, Heart Failure, and Hypertension
How Captopril Works
Captopril increases plasma renin activity and reduces aldosterone secretion by competitively inhibiting the Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) which prevents the conversion of Angiotensin I to Angiotensin II. It can also prevent the remodelling of the heart thus preserving the heart function.
Side Effects of Captopril
Hypotension, Dry cough, Hyperkalemia, Angioedema, Proteinuria, Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Constipation, Abdominal pain, Renal impairment
Warnings
Kidney Use With Care
Dose adjustment of Captopril must be made according to the patient's creatinine clearance in patients with renal impairment.
Alcohol Not Advisable
Taking alcohol with this medication is not advised as it may potentiate one of the side effects of Captopril which is hypotension.
Pregnancy Not Safe
Treatment with Captopril should be discontinued immedietly if it was started in pregnant mothers prior to pregnancy. This medication also should not be started in pregnant women or women who are planning to conceive unless it is clearly proven that Captopril is essential and the benefits outweigh the risk.
Driving Not advisable
It is not recommended to drive while taking this medication as the side effects may reduce your ability to drive and operating machines. Only drive if you are feeling well.
Liver Use With Care
Captopril as one of ACE inhibitor drugs may rarely cause hepatic necrosis. The patient who develops signs of liver failure should be discontinued from this medication.
Lactation Not Advisable
Treatment with Captopril in breastfeeding mother is not recommended unless necessary. Limited data shows a very low concentration of Captopril is excreted in breastmilk, however, due to limited studies, there is still a hypothetical risk towards the breastfeeding infant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
