What is this medication for?
Ramipril belongs to the class of medications called ACE inhibitors. It is used for the treatment of high blood pressure. Ramipril may also be used to reduce the risk of problems associated with heart disease (e.g., heart attack, stroke, or death) for people over 55 years of age who are at a high risk of having these problems. It is also given after heart attacks to improve survival and reduce the risk of hospitalization for heart failure. It works by relaxing blood vessels and by making the heart pump more efficiently.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.
Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The recommended adult dose of ramipril ranges from 2.5 mg to 20 mg daily in one or two divided doses, depending on the dose and circumstances.
For treatment of high blood pressure, the usual starting dose for people not using diuretics (water pills) is 2.5 mg once daily. The dose is usually increased according to need every 2 weeks. The usual dose range is 2.5 mg to 20 mg daily. For people using diuretics and for people with kidney function impairment, your doctor may start with a lower dose of 1.25 mg daily or ask you to stop using the diuretic for 2 or 3 days before starting ramipril.
For people at increased risk of problems related to heart disease, the recommended starting dose is 2.5 mg once daily, increasing gradually to 10 mg daily if tolerated.
For treatment following a heart attack, the usual starting dose varies depending on existing medical conditions, blood pressure, and other medications. The recommended starting dose is 2.5 mg twice daily, increased as tolerated every 3 weeks. The dose should not exceed 5 mg twice daily. A lower dose of 1.25 mg twice daily may be needed for those who experience low blood pressure as a result of taking the medication, are also taking a diuretic, or have kidney function impairment.
Swallow the capsules whole. If the capsules cannot be swallowed, they may be opened and their contents sprinkled on about 4 oz. of applesauce, apple juice, or water. Consume the applesauce, juice, or water within 24 hours of sprinkling on the contents of the capsule.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Store this medication at room temperature and keep it out of the reach of children.
Who should NOT take this medication?
Ramipril should not be taken by anyone who:
- is allergic to ramipril or to any of the ingredients of the medication
- is allergic to any member of the family of medications known as ACE inhibitors
(e.g., benazepril, ealapril, captopril)