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Pronunciation

KAP-toe-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.
  • Improved survival and reduced symptoms in patients with heart failure.
  • Improved survival and reduced development of overt heart failure after myocardial infarction.
  • Decreased progression of diabetic nephropathy with decreased need for transplantation or dialysis.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: 60–75% absorbed following oral administration (decreased by food).

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

Metabolism/Excretion: 50% metabolized by the liver to inactive compounds, 50% excreted unchanged in urine.

Half-Life: Infants with HF: 3.3 hr (range 1.2–12.4 hr); Children: 1.5 hr (range 0.98–2.3 hr); Adults: 1.9 hr ( to 20–40 hr in renal impairment); Adults with HF: 2.1 hr.

Time/Action Profile

(effect on BP—single dose)
ROUTEONSETPEAKDURATION
PO15–60 min60–90 min6–12 hr



Full effects may not be noted for several weeks.

Contraind./Precautions

Contraindicated in:

Use Cautiously in:

Adv. Reactions/Side Effects

Interactions

Drug-drug:

Drug-Natural Products:

Route/Dosage

Hypertension

Heart Failure

Left Ventricular Dysfunction Post-MI

Diabetic Nephropathy

Renal Impairment

Availability

(Generic available)

Assessment

Lab Test Considerations:

Implementation

Patient/Family Teaching

Evaluation/Desired Outcomes

US Brand Names

Capoten

Pot. Nursing Diagnoses

Code

NDC Code