What it means
An angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, the first in its class. It relaxes blood vessels and lowers the body's salt and water retention. It acts faster and for a shorter time than most ACE inhibitors, so it is taken two or three times a day. Side effects include a dry cough, high potassium, low blood pressure with the first dose and, rarely, swelling of the face, lips and throat (angioedema).
For the nurse
Give it 1 hour before meals. Check blood pressure, potassium and kidney tests. Teach the client to rise slowly, to avoid salt substitutes that contain potassium, and to seek emergency help for any swelling of the face, tongue or throat. It must not be taken in pregnancy.
At a glance
| Drug class | angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Capoten (older brand) |
| Spanish | captopril |
Related terms
hyperkalemia
A blood potassium level above normal, over 5.0 mEq/L.
hypertension
Blood pressure that stays higher than normal, at or above 130/80 mm Hg by current US guidelines.
heart failure
A long-term condition in which the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body's needs.