Brand Names: Altace

Generic Name: ramipril (Pronunciation: RAM i pril)

• What is ramipril (Altace)?
• What are the possible side effects of ramipril (Altace)?
• What is the most important information I should know about ramipril (Altace)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking ramipril (Altace)?
• How should I take ramipril (Altace)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Altace)?
• What happens if I overdose (Altace)?
• What should I avoid while taking ramipril (Altace)?
• What other drugs will affect ramipril (Altace)?
• Where can I get more information?

What is ramipril (Altace)?

Ramipril is in a group of drugs called ACE inhibitors. ACE stands for angiotensin converting enzyme.

Ramipril is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), heart failure, and to improve survival after a heart attack.

Ramipril may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Altace 1.25 mg

yellow, imprinted with ALTACE 1.25 mg, MP

Altace 10 mg

blue, imprinted with ALTACE 10 MG, HOECHST

Altace 2.5 mg

orange, imprinted with ALTACE 2.5 mg, MP

Altace 5 mg

red, imprinted with ALTACE 5 mg

Ramipril 10 mg-TEV

blue, imprinted with 93 7438

Ramipril 2.5 mg-TEV

yellow, imprinted with 93 7436

Ramipril 5 mg-TEV

pink, imprinted with 93 7437

What are the possible side effects of ramipril (Altace)?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; severe stomach pain; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• feeling light-headed, fainting;
• urinating less than usual, or not at all;
• fever, chills, body aches, flu symptoms;
• pale skin, easy bruising or bleeding, unusual weakness;
• pounding or uneven heartbeats;
• slow heart rate, weak pulse, muscle weakness, tingly feeling;
• jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);
• chest pain; or
• swelling, rapid weight gain.

Less serious side effects may include:

• cough;
• dizziness, drowsiness, headache;
• sleep problems (insomnia);
• decreased sex drive, impotence, or difficulty having an orgasm;
• nausea, vomiting; or
• mild skin itching or rash.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

What is the most important information I should know about ramipril (Altace)?

Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy. Ramipril could cause birth defects in the baby if you take the medication during pregnancy. Use an effective form of birth control. Stop using this medication and tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant during treatment.

Avoid drinking alcohol. It can further lower your blood pressure and may increase some of the side effects of ramipril.

Do not use salt substitutes or potassium supplements while taking ramipril, unless your doctor has told you to.

Vomiting, diarrhea, or heavy sweating can cause you to become dehydrated. This can lead to very low blood pressure, electrolyte disorders, or kidney failure while you are taking ramipril. Drink plenty of water each day while you are taking this medication.