IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

QUINAPRIL HCL/HYDROCHLOROTHIAZIDE - ORAL

(KWIN-uh-prill /HYE-droe-KLOR-oh-THYE-a-zide)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Accuretic

WARNING: This drug can cause serious (possibly fatal) harm to an unborn baby if used during pregnancy. Therefore, it is important to prevent pregnancy while taking this medication. Consult your doctor for more details and to discuss the use of reliable forms of birth control while taking this medication. If you are planning pregnancy, become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant, contact your doctor immediately.

USES: This medication is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems.

This product contains two medications, quinapril and hydrochlorothiazide. Quinapril belongs to a class of drugs known as ACE inhibitors. It works by relaxing blood vessels so blood can flow more easily. Hydrochlorothiazide (or "The thiazide diuretic") increases the amount of urine you make, removing extra water and salt from your body. These medications are used together when one drug is not controlling your blood pressure.

OTHER USES: This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.

This medication may also be used to treat congestive heart failure.

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually once daily or as directed by your doctor. It is best to avoid taking this medication within 4 hours of your bedtime to avoid having to get up to urinate. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about your dosing schedule.

Drink plenty of fluids to prevent losing too much body water (dehydration). If you are on restricted fluid intake, consult your doctor for further instructions.

This product contains magnesium which may interfere with the absorption of some medications. See the Drug Interactions section and consult your pharmacist for more information.

Do not take potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium without talking to your doctor or pharmacist first. This medicine can infrequently raise or lower your potassium blood levels. This effect can rarely cause serious side effects such as muscle weakness/cramping or very slow heartbeat. Tell your doctor immediately if these effects occur.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy.

Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. Do not skip doses or stop taking this medication unless directed by your doctor. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick. It may take up to several weeks before the full benefit of this drug takes effect.

Inform your doctor if your condition worsens (e.g., your routine blood pressure readings increase).