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Altace description. ACE inhibitors belong to the class of medicines called high blood pressure medicines (antihypertensives). They are used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). High blood pressure adds to the workload of the heart and arteries. If it continues for a long time, the heart and arteries may not function properly. This can damage the blood vessels of the brain, heart, and kidneys, resulting in a stroke, heart failure, or kidney failure. High blood pressure may also increase the risk of heart attacks. These problems may be less likely to occur if blood pressure is controlled. Lisinopril, captopril, ramipril, and trandolapril are used in some patients after a heart attack. After a heart attack, some of the heart muscle is damaged and weakened. The heart muscle may continue to weaken as time goes by. This makes it more difficult for the heart to pump blood. Lisinopril use may be started within 24 hours after a heart attack to increase survival rate. Captopril, ramipril, and trandolapril help slow down the further weakening of the heart. Captopril is also used to treat kidney problems in some diabetic patients who use insulin to control their diabetes. Over time, these kidney problems may get worse. Captopril may help slow down the further worsening of kidney problems. In addition, some ACE inhibitors are used to treat congestive heart failure or may be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor. The exact way that these medicines work is not known. They block an enzyme in the body that is necessary to produce a substance that causes blood vessels to tighten. As a result, they relax blood vessels. This lowers blood pressure and increases the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart. Why prescribed Altace. Ramipril is used alone or in combination with other medications to treat high blood pressure. It is also used to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in patients at risk for these problems and to improve survival in patients with heart failure after a heart attack. Ramipril is in a class of medications called angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It works by decreasing certain chemicals that tighten the blood vessels, so blood flows more smoothly and the heart can pump blood more efficiently. How used Altace. Ramipril comes as a capsule to take by mouth. It is usually taken once or twice a day with or without food. To help you remember to take ramipril, take it around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take ramipril exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Swallow the capsule whole, or open the capsule and sprinkle the contents on a small amount of applesauce (about 4 oz.) or in 4 oz. of water or apple juice. Eat or drink the entire mixture. This mixture can be prepared in advance and stored for 24 hours at room temperature or 48 hours in the refrigerator. Your doctor will probably start you on a low dose of ramipril and gradually increase your dose. Ramipril controls high blood pressure and heart failure but does not cure them. Continue to take ramipril even if you feel well. Do not stop taking ramipril without talking to your doctor. Some brand names: - Accupril - Aceon - Altace - Angiotensin-converting Enzyme - Capoten - Coversyl - Inhibace - Lotensin - Mavik - Monopril - Prinivil |