Ramipril
Generic Details
Generic Name
Ramipril
Other Names
- Altace
Drug Class
- Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitor
Chemical Formula
C23H32N2O5
Molecular Weight
416.51 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Inhibits ACE, leading to decreased production of angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor, resulting in vasodilation and decreased blood pressure.
Indications
- Hypertension
- Heart Failure
- Post-myocardial infarction
- Diabetic Nephropathy
Common Dosage Forms
- Tablet: 1.25 mg, 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg
Typical Dosage
- 2.5-20 mg once daily
Pediatric Dosage
Geriatric Dosage
- Initiate therapy at a lower dose due to decreased renal function
Side Effects
- Dry cough
- Hypotension
- Hyperkalemia
- Renal impairment
- Angioedema
Contraindications
- History of angioedema with ACE inhibitors
- Pregnancy
- History of bilateral renal artery stenosis
Pregnancy Category
- D
Lactation Safety
- Limited data, caution advised
Drug Interactions
- Potassium-sparing diuretics
- NSAIDs
- Lithium
Overdose Symptoms
- Hypotension
- Shock
- Electrolyte disturbances
Antidote for Overdose
- Supportive care
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature (15-30°C)
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Rapidly absorbed from the GI tract
- Distribution: Highly protein-bound
- Metabolism: Primarily hepatic
- Excretion: Mainly through the urine
Precautions
- Hypotension
- Renal impairment
- Hyperkalemia
Warnings
- Fetal toxicity
- Angioedema
- Renal impairment