Ramipril 2.5mg/5mg/10mg

Ramipril is a medication used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and heart failure. It can also be sold under the brand name Tritace. It’s often prescribed to people who have experienced a heart attack. It can also reduce the risk of developing kidney problems or having a stroke. Ramipril can be sold in a variety of doses from 1.25mg, 2.5mg, 5mg and 10mg, in capsule or tablet form.

Ramipril 2.5mg belongs to a class of medication known as ACE Inhibitors (ACE standing for: Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitors). ACE Inhibitors are so called because they inhibit the enzyme that controls hormones relating to blood pressure. This means that Ramipril relaxes and widens the blood vessels, thereby making it easier for blood to flow through the body.

The dose of Ramipril you are prescribed will vary according to the condition it is treating. Typically, you will be given a low dose to start, around 1.25mg to 2.5mg daily. As the treatment develops and you consult with your doctor, the dosage may be increased up to a maximum of 10mg daily.

You should take Ramipril at the same time every day. If you’re taking Ramipril capsules, you should swallow them whole with water.

If you miss a daily dose of Ramipril, do not try and double dose to make up for it. Simply wait for your next standard dose. When first starting the medication you may feel dizzy, which is why it is often recommended that you take your first dose of Ramipril at bedtime. You may also experience the dizzy effect when your dosage has been increased for the first time.

If you have any more questions about taking Ramipril, make sure to sign up for our free Ask A Pharmacist service for answers to any health or prescription related concerns!

Ramipril can be a safe and effective drug when used as prescribed with the proper precautions taken. However, there are some conditions and medications that may prevent you from taking Ramipril. If you are allergic to any of the ingredients present in Ramipril, or if you have every experienced an allergic reaction known as Angiodema, you should not take Ramipril. You also shouldn’t take Ramipril if:

• You are within the last 6 months of your pregnancy
• You have abnormally low blood pressure
• You are having dialysis or other kinds of blood filtration
• You are taking the medication Aliskeren or any Renin Inhibitor medication
• You are taking or have taken the medication Sacubitril / Valsartan, also known as Entresto
• You have reduced blood flow to your kidneys (Renal Artery Stenosis)

You should also consult with your doctor before taking Ramipril if:

• You are going to have desensitisation treatment to treat an allergy to bee or wasp stings
• You are on a low salt diet
• You are going to receive general anaesthetic for an operation
• You have a high amount of potassium in your blood
• You have heart, liver or kidney problems

Ramipril may be less effective at your lowering blood pressure if you are African American.

As with all medication, you can experience side effects from Ramipril. These may include:

• Dizziness, mostly associated with starting the medication and can often occur when standing up quickly
• Headaches
• Tiredness
• A dry cough
• Diarrhoea
• Nausea and vomiting

Drinking alcohol can make some of these side effects worse, so it’s recommended you stop drinking when you are starting your Ramipril treatment.

It is possible to experience a mild skin rash when taking Ramipril. However, if you experience any symptoms that indicate a serious allergic reaction to Ramipril such as swelling in the face and throat and difficult breathing or swallowing, stop taking the medication and see a doctor immediately as you may need urgent medical treatment.

There are uncommon side effects that can sometimes be experienced when taking Ramipril. Make sure to read the Patient Information Leaflet which outlines more possible side effects as well as further warning and precautions.

Perindopril is another ACE Inhibitor medication which is used to treat the same conditions as Ramipril. Perindopril may also be given the brand name Coversyl Arginine.

Ramipril is available to buy online from e-Surgery from as little as £8.95.