Indications
Capoten is a medication prescribed to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), congestive heart failure, left ventricular dysfunction, and diabetic kidney disease. The active ingredient in Capoten is captopril. Captopril belongs to a class of drugs called angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It works by inhibiting the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, which is a hormone that constricts blood vessels and increases blood pressure.
Uses and Dosage
To use Capoten (captopril) tablets, take them by mouth on an empty stomach, at least one hour before meals, as directed by your doctor. The usual dosing pattern for Capoten is two to three times per day. Use the tablet regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. Keep taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully and do not change the dose without consulting them.
To use Capoten (captopril) tablets, the recommended dose varies depending on the condition being treated.
- For high blood pressure, the dose can range from 25 mg to 150 mg taken orally, two or three times a day on an empty stomach. Your doctor may need to adjust the dose based on your response to the medication.
- For heart failure and heart failure after a heart attack, the typical dose is 50 mg to 100 mg taken orally, three times a day on an empty stomach.
- For kidney disease related to diabetes, the typical dose is 25 mg taken orally, three times a day on an empty stomach.
The maximum recommended daily dose of Capoten is 450 mg, regardless of the condition being treated.
Side Effect
Common Side Effects of Capoten (Captopril):
- Cough
- Flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling)
- Loss of taste sensation
- Mild skin itching or rash
- Numbness, tingling, or burning pain in your hands or feet
Serious Side Effects of Capoten (Captopril):
- Chest pain or pressure
- Chills
- Cold or flu symptoms
- Fever
- Fluttering in your chest
- Ill feeling
- Lightheadedness
- Little or no urination
- Loss of movement
- Nausea
- Pain when swallowing
- Painful mouth sores
- Pounding heartbeats
- Rapid weight gain
- Shortness of breath
- Skin sores
- Slow or unusual heart rate
- Sore throat
- Sudden weakness
- Swelling
- Urinating more than usual
- Weakness
Form and Strength
Capoten (Captopril) is available in the following forms and strength:
Captopril: Tablet
- 12.5 mg
- 25 mg
- 50 mg
- 100 mg
Caution
- Do not take Capoten if you are allergic to it or any other ACE inhibitors.
- Inform your doctor if you have a history of kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes, or congestive heart failure.
- Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as Capoten can cause harm to the developing fetus.
- Inform your doctor of all medications you are currently taking, including over the counter and herbal remedies, as Capoten may interact with other medications.
- Follow your doctor's instructions carefully and do not change your dose without consulting your healthcare provider.
- If you experience symptoms such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, stop taking Capoten immediately and seek medical attention.
- Do not take potassium supplements or salt substitutes that contain potassium without your doctor's approval, as Capoten can increase potassium levels in the blood.
- Inform your doctor if you have a history of angioedema or other allergic reactions.
- Use caution when driving or operating machinery, as Capoten may cause dizziness or lightheadedness. Avoid alcohol while taking Capoten, as it may increase the risk of side effects.
- If you have diabetes, monitor your blood sugar levels closely while taking Capoten, as it may affect blood sugar levels.
- Report any signs of infection or illness to your doctor, as Capoten may lower the body's ability to fight infection.
- Keep all doctor's appointments and laboratory appointments to monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to the dosing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I have to take captopril on an empty stomach?
Food makes it harder for your body to absorb captopril, so it wouldn't work as well if you took the medication with food. Try to take your medication 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals to help the captopril to work the best it can in your body.
How long does it take captopril to work?
Captopril starts to kick in within 15 minutes, but it can take 60 to 90 minutes for the medication to be fully absorbed by the body. It takes about a week of taking captopril for it to fully kick in and lower your blood pressure.
How is Capoten taken?
Capoten is usually taken orally 1 to 2 times per day, or as directed by your doctor. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully and not to change your dose without consulting your healthcare provider.
Can Capoten be taken during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
Capoten is not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of using Capoten with your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
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