ACETAB 50mg Tablets

What is ACETAB 50mg

ACETAB 50mg is an oral antihypertensive medication that contains Captopril, a potent angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. It is primarily used to manage conditions such as hypertension (high blood pressure), congestive heart failure (CHF), diabetic nephropathy, and to improve survival following myocardial infarction (heart attack). Captopril helps reduce blood pressure and protect kidney function, particularly in diabetic patients.

• Generic Name: Captopril
• Strength: 50 mg per tablet
• Form: Oral tablet (ACETAB)
• Packaging: 30 tablets (10s blister x 3)
• Therapeutic Class: ACE inhibitor (Antihypertensive)

ACETAB is often part of a comprehensive treatment regimen that includes lifestyle changes and other medications to manage blood pressure and cardiac function.

How to use ACETAB 50mg

To ensure safe and effective treatment, ACETAB 50mg should be taken exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider. The tablets are taken orally, typically one hour before meals to enhance absorption.

• Administration: Swallow the tablet with a full glass of water. Do not chew or crush the tablet.
• Timing: Take at the same time(s) each day to maintain stable blood levels.
• Before Meals: Ideally taken 1 hour before eating, unless otherwise directed by a doctor.
• Missed Dose: Take the missed dose as soon as possible, unless it’s almost time for the next dose. Do not double the dose.

Regular monitoring of blood pressure, kidney function, and electrolytes (especially potassium) is important during treatment. Do not discontinue the medicine suddenly without medical advice, as this could worsen the condition being treated.

Mode of Action ACETAB 50mg

ACETAB 50mg (Captopril) works by inhibiting the activity of the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), which plays a critical role in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) that regulates blood pressure and fluid balance.

• Blocks ACE: Prevents the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a substance that causes blood vessels to constrict.
• Vasodilation: By reducing angiotensin II levels, it causes the blood vessels to relax and widen, lowering blood pressure.
• Reduced Aldosterone: Decreases aldosterone secretion, which leads to reduced sodium and water retention.
• Cardioprotective: Decreases afterload and preload, improving heart function in patients with heart failure.
• Nephroprotective: Reduces glomerular pressure and delays progression of diabetic nephropathy.

This multi-faceted action makes ACETAB 50mg effective for cardiovascular and renal protection in a wide range of patient populations.

ACETAB 50mg Interactions ACETAB 50mg

Captopril interacts with several medications, which may affect its effectiveness or increase the risk of adverse effects. Inform your doctor about all drugs and supplements you are taking before starting ACETAB.

• Potassium-sparing diuretics or supplements (e.g., spironolactone, potassium chloride): May increase the risk of hyperkalemia (high potassium).
• NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen): May reduce the antihypertensive effect and worsen renal function.
• Diuretics (e.g., furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide): May enhance the risk of hypotension, especially with initial doses.
• Other antihypertensives: Additive hypotensive effects may occur.
• Lithium: Risk of increased lithium levels and potential toxicity.
• Allopurinol or immunosuppressants: Increased risk of hematological toxicity.

Use caution and monitor clinical parameters if any of these drugs must be used alongside ACETAB 50mg.

Dosage of ACETAB 50mg

The dosage of ACETAB 50mg should be individualized based on the medical condition, patient age, renal function, and concurrent therapies.

• Hypertension: Initial dose is typically 25 mg twice daily. Maintenance dose may be adjusted to 50 mg twice daily as needed.
• Heart Failure: Starting dose is 6.25 to 12.5 mg two to three times daily. Titrated to a maximum of 50 mg three times daily if tolerated.
• Post-Myocardial Infarction: Begin with 6.25 mg as early as 3 days post-infarction, increasing to 25–50 mg three times daily.
• Diabetic Nephropathy: 25 mg three times daily is typically recommended.
• Maximum Dose: Should not exceed 450 mg per day.

Renal function and blood pressure must be monitored regularly, and dosage adjusted accordingly in patients with kidney impairment.

Possible side effects of ACETAB 50mg

ACETAB 50mg is generally well tolerated, but like any medication, it can cause side effects. Some are common and mild, while others may be serious and require medical attention.

• Common Side Effects:
• Dry, persistent cough
• Dizziness or light-headedness (especially after first dose)
• Loss of taste or metallic taste
• Fatigue or weakness
• Rash
• Serious Side Effects:
• Angioedema (swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat)
• Hyperkalemia (elevated potassium levels)
• Hypotension (low blood pressure)
• Renal impairment or acute kidney injury
• Neutropenia or agranulocytosis (lowered white blood cells)

If any serious symptoms occur, seek immediate medical help. Monitoring during therapy helps detect and manage side effects early.

ACETAB 50mg Contraindications ACETAB 50mg

Captopril, the active component of ACETAB 50mg, is contraindicated in several clinical situations. Use is strictly avoided in the following cases:

• History of angioedema associated with prior ACE inhibitor therapy
• Hereditary or idiopathic angioedema
• Known hypersensitivity to captopril or other ACE inhibitors
• Pregnancy, especially during the 2nd and 3rd trimesters (risk of fetal injury or death)
• Breastfeeding (excretion in breast milk can affect the infant)
• Severe bilateral renal artery stenosis
• Concurrent use with aliskiren in diabetic patients

Before starting treatment, the patient’s history and co-morbidities must be thoroughly evaluated to prevent complications.

Storage of ACETAB 50mg

Proper storage ensures the stability and effectiveness of ACETAB 50mg tablets throughout their shelf life.

• Store at a temperature below 25°C (77°F) in a dry environment.
• Keep in the original blister packaging until ready to use.
• Protect from moisture and direct sunlight.
• Do not use tablets that are discolored, chipped, or expired.
• Keep out of reach and sight of children.

Improper storage can degrade the active ingredient and reduce the medication’s effectiveness.