ACE Inhibitors
Your doctor has prescribed an ACE inhibitor. This medication opens up your blood vessels so that your blood flows more easily. Below are helpful tips for taking your ACE inhibitor.
Why Take Your ACE Inhibitor
- It gives you more energy to do the things you enjoy.
- It helps you stay out of the hospital.
- It helps you live longer.
Tips to Help You
- Follow the fact sheet that comes with your medication. It tells you when and how to take it. Ask for a sheet if you don’t get one.
- Have a routine for taking your medication. Take it at the same time each day. A watch with an alarm can help.
- Take your medication at least 1 hour before you eat or 2 hours after you eat. Take your medication at the same time each day.
- Do not change the dose or stop taking your medication unless your doctor tells you to. It may take a few weeks for you to feel that the medication is working.
When to Call Your Doctor
- You have diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or you are sweating. These can cause loss of water (dehydration) and low blood pressure.
- You have a dry, hacking cough or a sore throat.
- You feel dizzy or faint, or have a headache.
- You have a fever or chills, trouble breathing or swallowing, or swelling in your face, mouth, arms, lower legs, ankles, or feet. These may be signs of an allergic reaction.
- You have any other unusual symptoms.