ACETAB 50mg Tablets

What is ACETAB 50mg

ACETAB 50mg is a film-coated tablet formulation containing Captopril, an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. It is commonly used in the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure), heart failure, and certain kidney conditions, particularly in patients with diabetes (diabetic nephropathy). ACETAB helps to reduce the workload on the heart and relax blood vessels, thereby lowering blood pressure and improving blood flow.

• Generic Name: Captopril
• Strength: 50mg
• Form: Oral tablet
• Indications: Hypertension, congestive heart failure, diabetic nephropathy, post-myocardial infarction management

How to use ACETAB 50mg

Take ACETAB 50mg exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. It is typically taken orally, one hour before meals, for optimal absorption.

• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
• Take it at the same time every day to maintain consistent blood levels.
• Do not skip doses or stop abruptly without consulting your doctor.
• Monitor your blood pressure regularly while on this medication.

Patients with kidney problems or those on diuretics should follow their doctor’s dosing instructions closely to avoid hypotension or kidney dysfunction.

Mode of Action ACETAB 50mg

Captopril, the active ingredient in ACETAB 50mg, works by inhibiting the enzyme angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), which is part of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS).

• ACE converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor.
• By inhibiting this enzyme, captopril reduces angiotensin II levels, resulting in vasodilation (widening of blood vessels).
• This leads to decreased blood pressure, reduced afterload and preload on the heart, and improved cardiac output.
• Captopril also reduces aldosterone secretion, decreasing sodium and water retention.

Overall, ACETAB 50mg improves cardiovascular outcomes and renal function in patients with heart failure or diabetic nephropathy.

ACETAB 50mg Interactions ACETAB 50mg

ACETAB 50mg can interact with several drugs, potentially increasing the risk of side effects or reducing therapeutic efficacy.

• Diuretics: May potentiate hypotensive effects.
• Potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., spironolactone): Risk of hyperkalemia.
• NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, diclofenac): May reduce antihypertensive effect and impair renal function.
• Other antihypertensives: Additive blood pressure lowering effects.
• Lithium: Risk of increased serum lithium levels and toxicity.
• Allopurinol and immunosuppressants: Increased risk of hematologic toxicity.

Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about any medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking.

Dosage of ACETAB 50mg

The dosage of ACETAB 50mg varies based on the condition being treated and the patient’s clinical response.

• Hypertension: Start with 25mg twice daily. The dose may be increased to 50mg twice daily.
• Heart Failure: Typically 25-50mg two or three times daily.
• Diabetic Nephropathy: Usually 25mg three times daily.
• Maximum Daily Dose: Generally should not exceed 150mg/day.

Renal function should be assessed before and during treatment. Dosage adjustments may be necessary in patients with impaired kidney function.

Possible side effects of ACETAB 50mg

Like all medications, ACETAB 50mg may cause side effects. While many are mild and temporary, some require medical attention.

• Common side effects:
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Cough (persistent, dry)
• Taste disturbances
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Serious side effects:
• Hyperkalemia (high potassium levels)
• Angioedema (swelling of the face, lips, or throat)
• Kidney dysfunction
• Neutropenia or agranulocytosis (rare blood disorders)
• Severe hypotension

If any severe or unusual symptoms occur, seek medical advice immediately.

ACETAB 50mg Contraindications ACETAB 50mg

ACETAB 50mg should not be used in certain populations due to the risk of adverse effects.

• History of angioedema related to previous ACE inhibitor therapy
• Hypersensitivity to captopril or any other ACE inhibitors
• Pregnancy – especially during the second and third trimesters
• Breastfeeding – avoid unless clearly necessary
• Severe renal artery stenosis or aortic stenosis
• Concurrent use with aliskiren in diabetic patients

A complete medical history should be reviewed before starting treatment to rule out contraindications.

Storage of ACETAB 50mg

To preserve its stability and effectiveness, ACETAB 50mg tablets should be stored properly.

• Store below 25°C (77°F) in a cool, dry place.
• Keep in the original blister packaging until time of use.
• Protect from moisture and direct sunlight.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Do not use expired medication or if the tablets appear discolored or damaged.

Proper storage ensures the medication remains effective throughout its shelf life.