Generic name: Quinapril

Why is this medication prescribed?
Quinapril is used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. It decreases certain chemicals that tighten the blood vessels so that blood flows more smoothly and the heart can pump more efficiently.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How should this medicine be used?
Quinapril comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once or twice a day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take quinapril exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Quinapril controls high blood pressure and heart failure but does not cure them. Continue to take quinapril even if you feel well. Do not stop taking quinapril without talking to your doctor.

What special precautions should I follow?
Before taking quinapril,

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to quinapril or any other drugs.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially diuretics ('water pills'), lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid), other medications for high blood pressure, potassium supplements, and vitamins.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart or kidney disease or diabetes.
• if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking quinapril.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?
Quinapril may cause an upset stomach. Take quinapril with food or milk. Avoid taking quinapril with high-fat foods or high-fat meals.

Talk to your doctor before using salt substitutes containing potassium. If your doctor prescribes a low-salt or low-sodium diet, follow these directions carefully.

What should I do if I forget a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?
Although side effects from quinapril are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• headache
• dizziness or lightheadedness
• excessive tiredness
• diarrhea
• upset stomach
• cough
• sore throat
• fever
• unusual bruising

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

• swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, arms, or legs
• difficulty breathing or swallowing
• fainting
• rash

What storage conditions are needed for this medicine?
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

In case of emergency/overdose
In case of overdose, call your local poison controlcenter at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsedor is not breathing, call local emergency services at911.

Symptoms of overdose may include:

• lightheadedness
• fainting

What other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your blood pressure should be checked regularly to determine your response to quinapril.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.