Ramipril: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

To control blood pressure, your physician will prescribe antihypertensive drugs like ramipril. In some cases, patients have developed gout due to using antihypertensive category drugs. The risk of gout also increases with the type of medication prescribed, like: Hypertensive drugs such as diuretics Beta-blockers ACE inhibitors Angiotensin II receptor blockers

Ramipril use can lead to persistent, dry, or irritating cough. Usually, generic cough medicine cannot help reduce ramipril-induced cough. Consult your doctor in this case. In some patients, the cough resolves on its own. Generally, it disappears in 1–4 weeks after stopping ramipril use. However, it may take months to completely vanish in some patients.

No, ramipril is not a nitrate drug. Nitrate drugs are used to treat or prevent heart pain (chest pain or angina). Ramipril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor used in cases of hypertension to relax and widen the blood vessels. However, using nitrates for treating chest pain may affect the mechanism of ramipril.

Yes. Ramipril is safe and effective for high blood pressure and heart failure patients. This lipophilic ACE inhibitor can be taken once daily. You can safely consume ramipril for a longer duration, where it also works better. However, get regular blood tests done, as indiscriminate ramipril use for longer periods will harm kidney function.

Yes, you may take Viagra (sildenafil citrate) while consuming ramipril for hypertension. Certain blood pressure medications lead to erectile dysfunction. Viagra also adds to ramipril’s effectiveness in reducing blood pressure. However, consult your doctor if you notice signs of extremely low blood pressure like fainting, dizziness, flushing, headaches, or rapid heart rate.

Yes. Ramipril has a serious side effect that affects kidney function. It decreases angiotensin II levels and increases bradykinin levels – thus enlarging the arterioles. However, ramipril also inhibits the platelet-derived growth factor-induced reproduction of glomerulus cells present in the kidney. These glomerular cells have a significant role in renal filtration. Therefore, long-term consumption of ramipril worsens kidney functioning.

No. Both ramipril and diuretics are blood pressure medications. However, ramipril is an ACE inhibitor that works by relaxing and dilating blood vessels for better circulation to the body. Hydrochlorothiazide or thiazide diuretics help your body by drawing away extra salt and water from it and increasing the amount of urine.

You should not consume ramipril if any of these conditions apply to you: Allergy to ramipril Planning for pregnancy; are pregnant or breastfeeding Low blood pressure A recent episode of diarrhea or vomiting Existing heart, liver, or kidney issues Undergoing dialysis or other blood filtration process Diabetic Have blood problems like neutropenia Planning for surgery Are on a low-salt diet

No, ramipril does not belong to the statin category. Ramipril is an ACE inhibitor. Statins, like simvastatin, are cholesterol-reducing drugs. Both statins and ACE inhibitors are options for treating and preventing cardiovascular diseases. Doctors may prescribe a combination of the two to treat patients with blood pressure or other cardiovascular issues.

No. Conversely, ramipril can worsen kidney function if used for a longer time. Speak to your doctor if you notice decreased frequency or amount of urine; bloody urine; increased thirst; swelling on face, fingers, or lower legs; weight gain; or increased blood pressure. These might be symptoms of serious kidney disease.

Speak to our team at Yashoda Hospitals for speedy and expert medical advice and services. Let our experts answer your queries regarding dosage, precautions, and side effects of taking ramipril.