Captopril is a prescription medication primarily used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) and heart failure. It may also be used to treat kidney problems caused by diabetes. This drug is available under the brand name Capoten. Generic versions are also available.

Captopril belongs to the drug class known as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It helps manage blood pressure and improve heart function.

Please note that you will need a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider to obtain this medication.

Captopril is commonly prescribed for the treatment of the following conditions:

Hypertension: Captopril is effective in lowering high blood pressure and reducing the risk of stroke, heart attacks, and other cardiovascular complications associated with hypertension.

Heart Failure: Captopril is used in the management of heart failure to enhance the heart's pumping ability and alleviate symptoms such as shortness of breath and fluid retention.

Diabetic Nephropathy: Diabetic nephropathy is a serious complication of diabetes that affects the kidneys. It occurs when high levels of blood sugar damage the small blood vessels and filtration units in the kidneys, impairing their ability to filter waste products from the blood. Over time, this can lead to kidney dysfunction and, in severe cases, kidney failure.

While using captopril, some individuals may experience side effects, though not everyone will.

Common side effects may include:

• Cough
  
• Dizziness
  
• Change in taste
  
• Fatigue
  
  

More severe side effects are rare but may include:

• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (signs of an allergic reaction)
  
• Skin rash or hives
  
• Itching
  
• Chest pain
  
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  
• Kidney dysfunction
  
• Fainting
  
• Low white blood cell count
  
  

It's important to promptly report any side effects or concerns to your healthcare provider.

Before starting treatment with captopril, inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with captopril.

Specifically, discuss any history of:

• Kidney disease
  
• Liver disease
  
• Heart disease
  
• Diabetes
  
  

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using captopril to assess potential risks and benefits.

The recommended dosage of captopril may vary depending on the specific condition being treated, individual factors, and your healthcare provider's guidance. It is typically taken orally in tablet form.

For hypertension, the usual starting dose is often 25 mg taken 2-3 times daily, 1 hour before meals. For heart failure, the initial dose may vary, and your healthcare provider will adjust it based on your response.

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding dosing and other recommendations for taking captopril. Do not discontinue or alter your dosage without consulting your doctor, as this can affect the medication's effectiveness.

Store captopril as directed by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Proper storage is essential to maintain the medication's effectiveness. Typically, captopril should be stored at room temperature, away from excessive heat, light, and moisture.

Keep the medication out of the reach of children and ensure that the container is tightly closed.

Captopril is available by prescription only. A licensed healthcare provider must authorize the use of this medication.

Looking for a prescription? Providers on Sesame can assess your eligibility and prescribe captopril if it's appropriate for your medical condition and needs. You can arrange for pickup at your pharmacy, depending on the medication. Book an online consultation with a licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether captopril might be right for you.

Providers on Sesame are unable to prescribe controlled substances.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider. Sesame cannot guarantee that you will be provided a prescription after a video or in-person appointment.

Providers on Sesame can help you get a prescription for captopril, which you can pick up at a nearby pharmacy. Don't wait to get your prescription filled—talk to a provider on Sesame today to streamline the process for convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.