ACETAB 25mg Tablets

What is ACETAB 25mg

ACETAB 25mg is a film-coated oral tablet containing Captopril, an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. It is primarily used to treat:

• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Congestive heart failure
• Left ventricular dysfunction after myocardial infarction
• Diabetic nephropathy in patients with type 1 diabetes

By lowering blood pressure and improving cardiac output, Captopril helps reduce the risk of stroke, heart attack, and kidney problems. It is typically prescribed as part of a long-term treatment plan and may be used alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents.

How to use ACETAB 25mg

Always use ACETAB as prescribed by your physician. Instructions for proper usage include:

• Take the tablet orally, with or without food. However, it is often recommended to take it one hour before meals to enhance absorption.
• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew unless advised.
• Take the medication at the same time each day for consistent blood levels.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it's almost time for the next one. Do not double the dose.
• Regular blood pressure monitoring and kidney function tests may be required during treatment.

Patients should not stop taking ACETAB abruptly without consulting a healthcare provider, as this can lead to rebound hypertension or worsening of heart failure.

Mode of Action ACETAB 25mg

Captopril, the active ingredient in ACETAB, works by inhibiting the enzyme ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme), which plays a crucial role in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS).

• ACE converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor. By inhibiting ACE, captopril reduces angiotensin II levels.
• This leads to vasodilation, resulting in decreased blood pressure and reduced workload on the heart.
• It also lowers aldosterone secretion, promoting sodium and water excretion while conserving potassium, further aiding in blood pressure reduction and decreasing fluid overload.
• Captopril may improve endothelial function and reduce proteinuria, making it beneficial in diabetic nephropathy.

The overall effects are lowered systemic vascular resistance and improved cardiac output, without significant changes in heart rate.

ACETAB 25mg Interactions ACETAB 25mg

Several medications may interact with ACETAB (Captopril) and alter its effectiveness or increase the risk of adverse effects:

• Potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., spironolactone, amiloride): Increase the risk of hyperkalemia.
• Potassium supplements or salt substitutes: May lead to elevated potassium levels.
• NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, diclofenac): May reduce the antihypertensive effect and impair renal function.
• Diuretics (e.g., furosemide): Can enhance the blood pressure-lowering effect; may cause excessive hypotension, especially after the first dose.
• Other antihypertensives (e.g., beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers): Additive effect on lowering blood pressure.
• Allopurinol or immunosuppressants: Increased risk of blood dyscrasias.
• Insulin and oral hypoglycemics: May enhance hypoglycemic effect; monitor blood sugar closely.
• Gold therapy (e.g., sodium aurothiomalate): Risk of nitritoid reactions, including facial flushing, nausea, vomiting, and hypotension.

Always inform your healthcare provider about all the medications and supplements you are taking before starting ACETAB.

Dosage of ACETAB 25mg

The dosage of ACETAB (Captopril) varies depending on the indication and the patient’s clinical response:

• Hypertension: Initial dose is typically 25 mg twice daily. Maintenance dose ranges from 50 to 100 mg daily, divided into two doses.
• Congestive heart failure: Start with 6.25–12.5 mg two or three times daily. Titrate up to a maintenance dose of 50–100 mg daily in divided doses.
• Post-myocardial infarction: Initiate at a low dose (6.25 mg), then titrate up based on tolerance and renal function.
• Diabetic nephropathy: Usual dose is 75–100 mg per day, given in 2–3 divided doses.

Note: Elderly patients or those with renal impairment may require lower starting doses and close monitoring. Dose adjustments should always be guided by a healthcare professional.

Possible side effects of ACETAB 25mg

While ACETAB (Captopril) is generally well-tolerated, it may cause several side effects, including:

• Common: Cough (dry, persistent), dizziness, fatigue, rash, altered taste (metallic taste)
• Gastrointestinal: Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea
• Cardiovascular: Hypotension (especially after the first dose), palpitations
• Renal: Increased serum creatinine or BUN, particularly in patients with pre-existing renal impairment or on diuretics
• Hematological: Rare but serious side effects include neutropenia, agranulocytosis (more common in patients with renal disease)
• Allergic reactions: Angioedema (swelling of lips, tongue, throat) — a medical emergency

Report any severe or persistent symptoms to your healthcare provider. Discontinue use immediately and seek emergency care in case of angioedema or significant hypotension.

ACETAB 25mg Contraindications ACETAB 25mg

Do not use ACETAB (Captopril) in the following conditions:

• History of angioedema related to previous ACE inhibitor therapy
• Hereditary or idiopathic angioedema
• Pregnancy: Particularly in the second and third trimesters due to risk of fetal injury or death
• Severe renal artery stenosis (especially bilateral)
• Hypersensitivity to Captopril or any component of the formulation
• Concomitant use with aliskiren in diabetic patients or patients with renal impairment

Use with caution in patients with kidney dysfunction, liver disease, collagen vascular diseases, or those undergoing desensitization therapy.

Storage of ACETAB 25mg

Proper storage of ACETAB ensures its stability and effectiveness:

• Store in a cool, dry place at room temperature (15°C to 30°C).
• Protect from excessive heat, humidity, and direct sunlight.
• Keep the tablets in their original blister packaging until use.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not use the medication after the expiry date mentioned on the packaging.

If you notice any change in tablet color or integrity, consult your pharmacist before use. Do not flush expired or unused medication down the toilet; follow local guidelines for safe disposal.