Ramipril: Uses, How It Works, Medicines
Also in: हिन्दी தமிழ் मराठी తెలుగు ಕನ್ನಡ বাংলা ગુજરાતી മലയാളം ਪੰਜਾਬੀ
Ramipril is a prescription medicine used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure and some kidney damage. It belongs to the ACE inhibitors. A dry cough is a common side effect. It should not be taken in pregnancy and should only be started or stopped on a doctor's advice.
Also known as: Ramipril tablet, Ramipril capsule, Ramipril 2.5 mg, Ramipril 5 mg, Ramipril 10 mg, Tritace, Cardace
Pharmacist review in progress. This page is based on the sources listed below and is being checked by our registered pharmacist.
How does Ramipril work?
Ramipril blocks the enzyme ACE, which the body uses to make angiotensin II, a hormone that narrows blood vessels. With less angiotensin II, the vessels relax and widen and blood pressure falls, which eases the work of the heart.
How to take Ramipril
Follow the label or your doctor's advice. Ramipril is usually taken once or twice a day, with or without food. Doctors usually start with a low dose. Your doctor decides the dose and how long you need it.
Side effects of Ramipril
Most people take ramipril without serious problems. Some side effects are common and mild, but a few need medical help.
Uncommon or mild
- A dry, persistent cough
- Dizziness or light-headedness, especially when standing up quickly
- Headache
- Diarrhoea or vomiting
- A mild skin rash
Rare but serious: get medical help
- Swelling of the lips, tongue, face or throat, or difficulty breathing (angioedema or a severe allergic reaction). Get medical help immediately
- Yellow skin or eyes
- Severe stomach pain
- Swollen ankles, blood in urine or passing much less urine
- Chest pain, a fast heartbeat, or signs of a stroke. Get medical help immediately
Who should be careful
Some people need to check with a doctor before taking ramipril, or need extra care while taking it.
When the label says not to use it
- Allergy to ramipril or another ACE inhibitor
- A past episode of swelling of the face or throat caused by an ACE inhibitor
- Pregnancy
- Pregnancy: do not take it if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, because it can harm the baby's kidneys. Tell your doctor straight away if you become pregnant
- Breastfeeding: ask your doctor first
- A past allergic reaction, including swelling of the face or throat
- Heart, liver or kidney problems, or dialysis
- Low blood pressure
- Diabetes: blood sugar may fall
Medicines and things that interact with Ramipril
Ramipril can change how other medicines work, and some medicines change its effect. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about everything you take, including herbal remedies and painkillers bought over the counter.
- Spironolactone, amiloride, triamterene and potassium supplements: potassium can become too high
- NSAID painkillers such as ibuprofen: they can weaken the effect and strain the kidneys
- Water tablets such as furosemide, and other blood pressure medicines
- Lithium
- Ciclosporin, tacrolimus, allopurinol and steroids
- Diabetes medicines
If someone takes too much
Taking more than prescribed can cause dizziness, sleepiness and a noticeable heartbeat. If someone has taken more than prescribed, call 112 or go to the nearest hospital and take the medicine pack with you.
Regulatory status in India
Approved for sale in India as a prescription medicine. Single-ingredient ramipril is not on the CDSCO list of medicines banned under section 26A of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. Fixed-dose combinations that contain it with other medicines may be treated differently, so check the ingredient list on the pack.
Type of medicine
Ramipril belongs to this type of medicine.
Medicines that contain Ramipril
These medicines sold in India contain Ramipril. They are listed A to Z, not ranked.
- Cardace 5 · 5 mg tablet
What is Ramipril used for?
Medicines that contain Ramipril are used for these conditions.
Other medicines of the same type
These active ingredients are of the same type as Ramipril.
Common questions
What is ramipril used for?
Ramipril is a prescription medicine used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure and some kidney damage. It is usually taken for a long time. A doctor decides whether it suits you.
Why does ramipril cause a dry cough?
A dry, persistent cough is a common effect of ACE inhibitors. Cough medicines usually do not help. Tell your doctor if it continues or disturbs your sleep, because another medicine may suit you better. Do not stop it yourself.
Is ramipril safe in pregnancy?
No. It can harm the baby's kidneys, and doctors advise stopping it if pregnancy is found. If you are pregnant, may become pregnant or are planning a baby, tell your doctor right away. Do not stop it without speaking to your doctor.
Why might the first dose of ramipril make me dizzy?
It lowers blood pressure, and the first dose can cause dizziness. Doctors usually start with a low dose and may suggest taking it at bedtime. If you feel faint, lie down and tell your doctor.
Can I use salt substitutes with ramipril?
Many salt substitutes are rich in potassium, and ramipril can raise potassium in the blood. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using them or potassium supplements.
Sources
- Ramipril: a medicine for high blood pressure and heart failure. NHS (UK)
- Who can and cannot take ramipril. NHS (UK)
- Side effects of ramipril. NHS (UK)
- Pregnancy, breastfeeding and fertility while taking ramipril. NHS (UK)
- Taking ramipril with other medicines and herbal supplements. NHS (UK)
- ATC/DDD Index: C09AA05 ramipril. WHO Collaborating Centre for Drug Statistics Methodology
- List of drugs prohibited for manufacture and sale through gazette notifications under section 26A of the Drugs & Cosmetics Act 1940. Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO)