Zestril

Zestril

Drug Information

Zestril is indicated for the treatment of hypertension (High Blood Pressure) and systolic heart failure. The medication is also prescribed to reduce the mortality rate after surviving a heart attack. Zestril tablets are fit for consumption in adults and children who have attained the age of 6. The medication by normalizing the blood pressure in patients help in the prevention of fatal and non-fatal heart complications, cardiac arrests, strokes and kidney disorders. This medicine is either prescribed as stand alone drug or meant to be taken in combination with other medicines related to diabetes control and cholesterol management. A slew of various lifestyle measures must be implemented so that the medicine can work effectively, such as physical exercises, curb on sodium consumption, smoking cessation and weight control. Medical professionals prescribe a combination of Zestril and other blood circulatory drugs to allay the risks of heart failure, including unusual swelling and shortness of breath.

Mechanism

Blood pressure is the force exerted by the blood on the walls of vessels when it circulates inside them within the body. Hypertension or high blood pressure is the condition when the pressure created by the blood within the vessels increase drastically. Zestril is an Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitor drug. The medication works by relaxing the arteries and increasing the space within them for blood passage. This further helps with efficient blood flow and better heart functioning. Zestril blocks the release of the chemical in the body that triggers muscle contraction. By doing so, it eases the resistance and normalizes blood pressure. It takes a few weeks for Zestril to improve the condition, but if do not notice any change, stop its intake. Regularly check your blood pressure to monitor the functioning of the drug.

How to take Zestril

The usual dose is 10mg once in a day. The dosage is prescribed on the basis of various deciding factors, such as patient’s age, weight and tolerability rate. Zestril tablets are available in dose strengths of Zestril 2.5mg, Zestril 5 mg and Zestril 10 mg. Doctors may recommend a low dose of diuretics or water pills if Zestril alone doesn’t work. The dosage for pediatric patients and older patients is generally low.

Zestril is an oral medication to be taken with or without food. Drink large amount of water or other fluids with Zestril. Take the medication at the same time daily and for the complete length of the prescribed duration. Zestril may leave the desired effects within 2-4 weeks in high blood pressure cases, while it takes few weeks to months in those suffering from heart failure.

Precautions

Tell your doctor if you are allergic to the medication or any other drug of similar nature (ACE inhibitor). Discuss your medical condition and the entire history with your doctor before using Zestril. Caution must be exercised in those patients who are undergoing any heart, liver or kidney disease.

Limit alcohol consumption while on Zestril treatment as you may feel excessively drowsy. If you are pregnant or a lactating mother, do not use Zestril without professional guidance. Keep feeding on food items high in sodium and potassium after doctor’s advice only.

Do not change your dosage yourself. Ask your doctor to do so. Take the medication for the complete course of time. Do not give your medication to another person showing the same symptoms. Do not stop using the drug even if you feel better. Read prescription label carefully that come along with the pack.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Zestril are drowsiness, depression, cough and cold, upset stomach, diarrhea, skin itching, vomiting and other reactions. Visit your doctor immediately if you feel ill after taking Zestril.

Some serious side effects are sudden swelling, weight changes, urination troubles, vertigo, sore throat, body ache, fatigue, fever, chills, heart pounding, psoriasis, tiredness, high potassium content and chest pain.