Warnings & Recalls for Altace
Black Box Warning
Altace is a
pregnancy category class D drug and has proven to be extremely harmful to the fetus, especially during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. Altace can impair fetal renal function and cause death. The patient should immediately stop using Altace as soon as she finds out she is pregnant.
Other Warnings
- Altace may cause kidney damage when combined with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
- Use with caution and monitor potassium levels when taking Altace with a diuretic. An unsafe drop in blood pressure may occur.
- Discontinue use if you experience symptoms of a severe allergic reaction such as facial swelling, difficulty breathing, or hives.
- Stay hydrated and drink plenty of fluids while taking Altace.
Recalls
- On August 2nd, 2010, King Pharmaceuticals recalled Altace 2.5 mg capsules - 100 count bottles due to lack of potency. The recalled lot number is 57425 and the expiration date is 10/2012. For further information, view the FDA Enforcement Report here.
Altace Treatment and Use
Altace | ramipril is an ACE Inhibitor that is primarily prescribed for high blood pressure and to help prevent congestive heart failure. Altace may also help diabetic patients. It is sometimes combined with the diuretic Hydrochlorothiazide. Altace is the most common brand name version of Ramipril in the U.S and is marketed by King Pharmaceuticals under Pfizer. It was approved for sale in 1991.
What does Altace do?
Altace helps to relax the blood vessels, which relaxes the heart and creates a smoother blood flow.
Dosage
Altace comes in 1.25 mg, 2.5 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg capsules. Take capsules by mouth or open capsule and mix with water, juice, or apple sauce. The initial dose for high blood pressure is 2.5 mg a day. After a few weeks, the daily dose may be increased until effective amount is reached.
The initial dose to prevent congestive heart failure is 2.5 mg. After one week, increase daily dose to 5 mg. Then, after three weeks, increase daily dose to 10 mg.
