Indications  

Capoten is a prescription medication indicated for the management of hypertension (high blood pressure). Its efficacy in reducing high blood pressure significantly decreases the risks of strokes, heart attacks, and renal complications. 

Capoten is also prescribed for the treatment of heart failure, prevention of kidney damage caused by diabetes, and enhancement of survival rates following a heart attack. 

Categorized as an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, Capoten works by lowering the levels of chemicals that constrict blood vessels, leading to improved blood flow and better cardiac function. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Capoten and with each prescription refill, thoroughly review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for any questions or concerns. 

The dosage of Capoten is determined based on the patient’s medical condition and response to the treatment. 

Typically, Capoten is taken two to three times a day on an empty stomach (at least 1 hour before meals) as directed by the doctor. 

Take this medication regularly around the same time(s) daily to achieve optimal results. Refrain from altering the dosage or taking it longer or more frequently than prescribed by your doctor. 

Continue taking Capoten, even if you feel well, as individuals with high blood pressure may not experience symptoms. Discontinuing this medication should only be done after consulting with a physician. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the side effects associated with the use of Capoten. Inform your doctor if you experience any persistent or worsened side effects. 

Common Side Effects 

• Coughing 
• Flushing (characterized by warmth, redness, or a tingly sensation) 
• Numbness, tingling, or burning pain in the hands or feet 
• Loss of taste sensation 
• Mild skin itching or rash 

Serious Side Effects 

• Feeling lightheaded, dizzy, or a fainting sensation 
• Little or no urine output or excessive urination 
• Shortness of breath (even with mild exertion), swelling, or rapid weight gain 
• Chest pain or pressure, palpitations, or fluttering in the chest 
• Indications of high potassium levels:  
  • Nausea 
  • Slow or irregular heartbeat 
  • Weakness 
  • Loss of movement 
• Sudden weakness or feeling unwell, fever, chills, sore throat, painful mouth sores, pain when swallowing, skin sores, cold or flu symptoms 

Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the above-listed severe symptoms. 

Allergic Reactions 

Severe allergic reactions to Capoten are uncommon but seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as: 

• Rash 
• Face, tongue, or throat itching or swelling 
• Severe dizziness 
• Trouble breathing 

This list does not contain all the potential side effects of Capoten. If you experience any other effects not listed above, notify your doctor promptly. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Capoten, inform your doctor and pharmacist if you have any known hypersensitivities, especially to: 

• Captopril 
• Other ACE inhibitors, such as lisinopril 
• Other medicines 
• Any ingredients present in Capoten tablets 

To ensure Capoten is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, specifically regarding any history of: 

• Allergic reactions that resulted in swelling of the face, tongue, lips, or throat (angioedema) 
• Blood filtering procedures such as dialysis or LDL apheresis 
• Collagen vascular diseases like lupus or scleroderma 
• High potassium levels in the blood 

Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all the medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, dietary supplements, and herbal products, to minimize the possibility of drug interactions that could impact the efficacy of Capoten or raise the likelihood of adverse effects. 

Some of the products that may interact with Capoten include: 

• Aliskiren 
• Certain immunosuppressive drugs (e.g., everolimus, sirolimus) 
• Lithium 
• Potassium-increasing drugs (e.g., ARBs like losartan/valsartan, drospirenone-containing birth control pills) 
• Sacubitril 

Certain products contain ingredients that may exacerbate heart failure or elevate blood pressure. Inform your pharmacist if you are taking cough and cold products, diet supplements, and NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen, and inquire about their safe usage. 

Ensure all your healthcare providers are aware of the medications you are taking, especially if receiving bee/wasp sting allergy desensitization injections, as a severe reaction may occur when used concomitantly with Capoten. 

Capoten can affect the accuracy of certain laboratory tests, such as the acetone urine test, potentially leading to incorrect results. Inform your healthcare providers and lab personnel about your use of this medication. 

Contact your doctor if you experience persistent diarrhea, vomiting, or excessive sweating, as dehydration can occur while taking Capoten, resulting in low blood pressure, electrolyte imbalances, or kidney damage. 

To avoid overheating and dehydration, follow your doctor’s recommended guidelines on the type and amount of liquids to consume, especially during exercise or hot weather. Overconsumption of fluids can be just as harmful as insufficient hydration. 

Consult with your doctor before engaging in rigorous physical activity while taking Capoten for heart failure.
Women of childbearing age should be informed about the potential risks of taking Capoten during pregnancy. Treatment options should be discussed with those planning to conceive. Patients should notify their doctors as soon as possible if they become pregnant when taking this medication. 

Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking Capoten as captopril can be passed into breast milk and cause harm to a nursing infant.