Drug Uses

 Prinivil is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor that is used in the treatment of hypertension and to manage heart failure. Prinivil helps blood vessels relax and may also be prescribed to improve the chances of survival post a heart attack.

 How it is taken

Prinivl can be taken by mouth with or without food to avoid an upset stomach. Take it for the entire duration of treatment preferably at the same time everyday. Do not stop without consulting your doctor.

The best way to use the drug is as recommended by your doctor.

Drug Class & Mechanism

Prinivil is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor that is used in the treatment of hypertension. It helps blood vessels relax and thereby reduces blood pressure.

Missed Dosage

If you miss a dose of Prinivil then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

Storage

Store it at room temperature protecting it from direct exposure to light, heat and moisture. Keep away from pets and children.
 

Warnings/Precautions

 Discuss with your doctor about any prior medical condition that you may have including allergies to medicines, food or other substances

 Do not drive or perform other potentially hazardous tasks until you know how your body reacts to the drug.

In some cases, Prinivil is known to cause a serious side effect called Angioedema which has symptoms like welling of the hands, face, lips, eyes, throat, or tongue, difficulty swallowing or breathing, or hoarseness. Contact your doctor immediately if you notice these symptoms.

Primivil may not be as effective in black patients and it poses an increased risk of angioedema in them.

Contact your doctor immediately if you notice symptoms like dehydration, excessive sweating, vomiting, or diarrhea as they may lead to low blood pressure.

You must not take if you are allergic to any ingredient in it or you have a history of angioedema (swelling of the hands, face, lips, eyes, throat, or tongue, difficulty swallowing or breathing, or hoarseness), including angioedema caused by treatment with an ACE inhibitor, are in your second or third trimester of pregnancy, the patient is a child with severe kidney problems.

In some rare cases, Prinivil is also known to weaken your immune system. If you have kidney problems or collagen vascular disease, then chances of your immune system weakening is increased severely. Avoid contact with people who have infections like sore throat, cold and chills. If you notice any signs of infection like fever, sore throat, rash, or chills, then contact your doctor immediately.

People who take blood pressure drugs often have a feeling of being tired during the first week of therapy. Ensure that you continue to take your medication even if you feel tired.

If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then stop using Prinivil and contact your doctor immediately. It is known to cause fetal death.

It is unknown whether Prinivil is secreted in breast milk. Avoid breast feeding while using the drug.

Certain drugs can interact with and hence, mention clearly to your doctor or pharmacist all medicines, dietary supplements and herbal prescriptions that you are taking.

If you have high blood pressure, do not use nonprescription products that contain stimulants. These products may include diet pills or cold medicines.

Prinivil may affect your blood sugar level and may make you feel confused, drowsy, or thirsty. Contact your doctor immediately if these symptoms occur.

should not be used in children as the safety and effectiveness of the drug have not been confirmed yet.

Periodic lab tests including blood pressure, blood electrolyte levels, heart function, or kidney or liver function, may be recommended to monitor your health while taking the drug. Ensure that you do not miss any lab tests.

It has been noted that elderly patients are more sensitive to the side effects of the drug. They might need a dosage adjustment or special monitoring throughout the treatment.
 

Possible Side Effects

 Some of the common side effects of are cough, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, tiredness. Please contact your doctor if the symptoms persist or become bothersome.

 Other severe side effects include severe allergic reactions (rash, hives, itching, difficulty breathing, tightness in the chest, swelling of the hands, eyes, mouth, face, lips, or tongue, hoarseness), chest pain, dark urine, decreased urination, difficulty swallowing, infection (eg, fever, chills, persistent sore throat), irregular or slow heartbeat, stomach pain (with or without nausea or vomiting), symptoms of low blood pressure (eg, fainting, severe dizziness, lightheadedness), yellowing of the skin or eyes.

You must seek medical attention immediately if any of these side effects occur.