Frequently asked questions for Ramipril
Ramipril
Q. I have been diagnosed with heart failure and the doctor has prescribed me Ramipril. Why?
Ramipril belongs to the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor group of drugs. It relaxes and widens the blood vessels, making it easier for the blood to pass through the vessels. As a result of this, the heart does not have to work more to push the blood. Since the workload on the heart is reduced, it is beneficial in heart failure. Additionally, it is also used to lower blood pressure and prevent stroke.Q. When can I expect my blood pressure to be normal after starting Ramipril?
Ramipril takes a few hours to reduce high blood pressure but since there are no symptoms, you will not notice any difference. It takes a few weeks for the blood pressure to get fully controlled. Do not stop taking the medicine. Keep taking it even if you feel better or if your blood pressure is normalized.Q. Can Ramipril increase potassium levels? If yes, what should be done?
Ramipril may increase potassium levels in the blood, especially if you have uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, kidney problems, and dehydration. Potassium levels may also increase in patients using potassium salts or medicines which increase potassium levels or are aged more than 70 years of age. If you have any of these conditions and are using Ramipril, you need to be careful and get regular blood tests done to monitor potassium levels.Q. Ever since I started taking Ramipril, I noticed that I have developed a dry cough which is very irritating and is not relieved by any medicine. Why is it?
Ramipril commonly is responsible for dry cough which can be persistent and is not relieved by any medicine. Talk to your doctor if it bothers you or you have trouble sleeping, as another medicine may be better. Even if you stop taking Ramipril, the cough may take a few days to a month to go away.Q. I accidentally took a 25 mg Ramipril tablet instead of one 5 mg. Will it have any harmful effects?
Yes, you may feel lightheaded, dizzy, your pulse may become slow and you may even faint. You should take the help of a relative or friend for an emergency or seek immediate medical support.Q. I have diabetes. Does Ramipril have any effect on blood sugar levels?
Yes, Ramipril may have some effect on antidiabetic medicines and insulin and may lower your blood sugar levels. Therefore, you need to check your blood sugar levels regularly.Q. I have been using Ramipril for blood pressure for some time, but now I have noticed that I often have a sore throat along with fever. I want to stop Ramipril and see if this goes, can I stop Ramipril?
No, you should not stop Ramipril suddenly as this may cause a sudden increase in your blood pressure which may be harmful to you. In addition to this, Ramipril can very rarely decrease your white blood cell count which is important to fight infections in your body. Consult your doctor and get a blood test done. If your white cell count is decreased, it could be due to Ramipril. Ask your doctor for alternative medicine for blood pressure. You can continue taking Ramipril if your investigations are normal.Q. Is it safe to take Ramipril for a long time?
Yes, Ramipril is safe and works best if taken for a long time. But, taking Ramipril for a long time can sometimes affect the working of your kidneys. To keep track of this, your doctor will get regular blood tests done and check how well your kidneys are working.Q. Can Ramipril affect my fertility?
There is no evidence that Ramipril has any effect on fertility in both men and women. However, if you are planning to get pregnant, talk to your doctor first because Ramipril is not recommended in pregnancy.Q. Will there be any problem if I am taking Ramipril and I have surgery scheduled in a week?
Inform your doctor that you are taking Ramipril. Ramipril can reduce your blood pressure when it is used with a general anesthetic. Your doctor may advise you to stop taking it 24 hours before surgery.