💊 Captopril

ACE Inhibitor (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitor)

Generic Name	Captopril
Drug Class	ACE Inhibitor
Indications	Hypertension Heart failure Left ventricular dysfunction post-myocardial infarction Diabetic nephropathy (renal protection)
Mechanism of Action	Inhibits angiotensin-converting enzyme → decreases angiotensin II formation → vasodilation, reduced aldosterone → ↓ blood pressure and reduced cardiac remodeling.
Available Forms & Strengths	• Tablet: 12.5 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg • Oral solution: 25 mg/5 mL
Dosage	Adults (Hypertension): 25–150 mg/day in 2–3 divided doses Heart failure: 6.25–50 mg 2–3 times daily (titrated) Children: 0.3–1.5 mg/kg/dose 2–3 times daily
Route	Oral
Common Side Effects	Dry cough Hypotension / dizziness Rash Fatigue Altered taste (dysgeusia)
Serious Adverse Effects	Hyperkalemia, angioedema, renal impairment, neutropenia (rare)
Contraindications	• History of angioedema related to ACE inhibitors • Pregnancy (especially 2nd and 3rd trimester) • Bilateral renal artery stenosis • Hypersensitivity to captopril
Precautions	• Monitor renal function and potassium • Start with low dose in elderly or hypovolemic patients • Caution in concomitant use with diuretics
Drug Interactions	• Potassium supplements / potassium-sparing diuretics (↑ hyperkalemia risk) • NSAIDs (↓ antihypertensive effect, ↑ renal risk) • Lithium (↑ lithium toxicity)
Pregnancy & Lactation	Pregnancy: Contraindicated in 2nd/3rd trimester Lactation: Use with caution
Storage	Store below 30°C, protect from moisture
References	BNF \| BNF for Children \| Goodman & Gilman

⚠️ Clinical note: Monitor blood pressure, renal function, and serum potassium regularly. Discontinue immediately if angioedema occurs.