ACUITEL 5mg Tablets

What is ACUITEL 5mg

ACUITEL 5 mg Tablets contain Quinapril hydrochloride, an ACE (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme) inhibitor used primarily to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and manage heart failure. It is presented in oral tablet form, packaged as 30 tablets per box (3 blister strips of 10 tablets each).

• Therapeutic Class: Antihypertensive – ACE inhibitor
• Indications:
• Essential hypertension
• Adjunctive treatment of congestive heart failure
• Cardiovascular risk reduction in high-risk patients
• Benefits:
• Helps reduce blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels
• Decreases the workload on the heart
• Improves long-term cardiovascular and renal outcomes

ACUITEL 5 mg is often prescribed as an initial dose for new patients, especially those with renal impairment or those taking diuretics. It serves both as a monotherapy or part of combination therapy for better blood pressure control.

How to use ACUITEL 5mg

Taking ACUITEL 5 mg correctly ensures optimal blood pressure control and minimizes the risk of side effects. Follow your doctor’s instructions precisely.

• Route: Oral administration
• Timing: Once or twice daily, preferably at the same time each day
• Food: Can be taken with or without meals
• Instructions:
• Swallow the tablet whole with water
• Do not crush or chew the tablet
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's close to the next dose, skip it—do not double the dose
• Continue taking the medicine regularly even if you feel well; high blood pressure often has no symptoms
• Precautions:
• Monitor blood pressure routinely
• Inform your doctor if you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or develop a persistent cough

Do not stop using ACUITEL without consulting your physician, as sudden discontinuation may cause blood pressure spikes or heart failure worsening.

Mode of Action ACUITEL 5mg

Quinapril, the active ingredient in ACUITEL 5 mg, works by inhibiting the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), which plays a vital role in regulating blood pressure and fluid balance.

• ACE Inhibition: Quinapril blocks the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor.
• Vasodilation: By reducing angiotensin II levels, blood vessels relax, resulting in decreased blood pressure.
• Reduction in Aldosterone: Leads to reduced sodium and water retention, lowering blood volume and pressure.
• Afterload Reduction: In heart failure, Quinapril reduces the resistance against which the heart pumps, improving cardiac efficiency.
• Nephroprotective: In diabetic or hypertensive patients, it slows the progression of kidney disease by decreasing intraglomerular pressure.

The medication exerts both immediate and long-term effects, offering benefits in lowering cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.

ACUITEL 5mg Interactions ACUITEL 5mg

ACUITEL 5 mg may interact with a number of medications and substances. These interactions can influence the effectiveness of Quinapril or increase the risk of side effects.

• Major Drug Interactions:
• Diuretics (e.g., Hydrochlorothiazide): Can enhance the blood pressure-lowering effect and risk of hypotension
• Potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., Spironolactone): May increase serum potassium, leading to hyperkalemia
• NSAIDs (e.g., Ibuprofen, Naproxen): May reduce the antihypertensive effect and worsen renal function
• Lithium: Increased risk of lithium toxicity
• Antidiabetic drugs (e.g., Insulin or Metformin): May enhance hypoglycemic effect; blood sugar levels should be monitored
• Other Interactions:
• Avoid alcohol – may further lower blood pressure
• Avoid salt substitutes containing potassium

Always inform your healthcare provider about all prescription, over-the-counter, herbal, or nutritional products you are using before starting ACUITEL.

Dosage of ACUITEL 5mg

ACUITEL 5 mg is typically used as an initial dose, especially for patients who are elderly, have kidney impairment, or are receiving diuretic therapy. Dosage adjustments are made based on therapeutic response and tolerability.

• For Hypertension:
• Initial dose: 5–10 mg once daily
• Maintenance dose: 10–40 mg/day (in single or divided doses)
• Maximum recommended dose: 80 mg/day
• For Heart Failure:
• Initial dose: 5 mg twice daily
• Titrate gradually up to 20–40 mg/day in divided doses
• Special Populations:
• Elderly: Start at 5 mg/day due to increased sensitivity
• Renal impairment: Reduce initial dose depending on creatinine clearance

Dosage should always be adjusted under medical supervision based on blood pressure response and kidney function. Regular monitoring is advised.

Possible side effects of ACUITEL 5mg

While ACUITEL 5 mg is generally well tolerated, it may cause side effects in some individuals. These range from mild to serious and often depend on individual sensitivity and dose.

• Common Side Effects:
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Fatigue
• Dry, persistent cough
• Headache
• Gastrointestinal discomfort (nausea, diarrhea)
• Less Common Side Effects:
• Skin rash or itching
• Increased potassium levels
• Changes in taste
• Low blood pressure (especially after first dose)
• Serious/Rare Side Effects:
• Angioedema – swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (requires immediate emergency care)
• Liver enzyme abnormalities
• Kidney dysfunction

Report any persistent or severe symptoms to your healthcare provider immediately, especially if you experience swelling or breathing difficulty.

ACUITEL 5mg Contraindications ACUITEL 5mg

There are certain situations in which the use of ACUITEL 5 mg is not recommended due to the potential risk of serious adverse effects.

• Absolute Contraindications:
• History of angioedema associated with ACE inhibitor therapy
• Hypersensitivity to Quinapril or any of its components
• Pregnancy – especially in the second and third trimester
• Concomitant use with aliskiren in patients with diabetes or kidney impairment
• Relative Contraindications / Use with Caution:
• Severe renal impairment or bilateral renal artery stenosis
• Electrolyte imbalance (especially hyperkalemia)
• Volume-depleted patients (e.g., from diuretics or dehydration)
• Severe aortic stenosis or cardiogenic shock

It is essential to discuss your full medical history with your physician before starting ACUITEL, to determine if the medication is appropriate for you.

Storage of ACUITEL 5mg

Proper storage of ACUITEL ensures that the medication remains safe and effective throughout its shelf life.

• Storage Conditions:
• Store at controlled room temperature: 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F)
• Keep in the original blister packaging to protect from moisture and light
• Do not expose to excessive heat or direct sunlight
• Precautions:
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Do not use after the expiration date printed on the package
• Do not transfer to other containers to avoid contamination
• Disposal:
• Follow local guidelines or return unused medicine to a pharmacy take-back program
• Do not flush down the toilet or pour into drains

Storing ACUITEL properly helps maintain its integrity and ensures safety during the treatment period.