section name header

Pronunciation

foe-SIN-oh-pril

Classifications

Therapeutic Classification: antihypertensives

Pharmacologic Classification: ace inhibitors

Indications

REMS


Action

  • Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors block the conversion of angiotensin I to the vasoconstrictor angiotensin II. ACE inhibitors also prevent the degradation of bradykinin and other vasodilatory prostaglandins. ACE inhibitors also plasma renin levels and aldosterone levels. Net result is systemic vasodilation.
Therapeutic effects:
  • Lowering of BP in patients with hypertension.
  • Decreased afterload and symptoms in patients with heart failure.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: 36% absorbed following oral administration.

Distribution: Crosses the placenta; enters breast milk in small amounts.

Protein Binding: 99.4%.

Metabolism/Excretion: Converted by the liver and GI mucosa to fosinoprilat, the active metabolite: 50% excreted in urine, 50% in feces.

Half-Life: 12 hr.

Time/Action Profile

(effect on BP—single dose)
ROUTEONSETPEAKDURATION
POWithin 1 hr2–6 hr24 hr



Full effects may not be noted for several weeks.

Contraind./Precautions

Contraindicated in:

Use Cautiously in:

Adv. Reactions/Side Effects

Neuro: dizziness, fatigue, headache, insomnia, weakness

Resp: cough

CV: hypotension, chest pain, edema

GI: abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting

GU: erectile dysfunction, impaired renal function

Derm: rash

F and E: hyperkalemia

MS: muscle cramps

Resp: dyspnea

Misc: ANGIOEDEMA

Interactions

Drug-drug:

Route/Dosage

Availability

(Generic available)

Assessment

Lab Test Considerations:

Implementation

Patient/Family Teaching

Evaluation/Desired Outcomes

US Brand Names

Monopril

Pot. Nursing Diagnoses

Code

NDC Code