Capotril 50mg 20 Tablets

Medication Name: Capotril 50mg 20 Tablets

Active Ingredient (per tablet):

• Captopril 50 mg

Pharmacological Class:

• Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitor

Dosage Form:

• Oral tablets — 20 per pack

Indications:

• Hypertension (high blood pressure)

• Heart failure (usually combined with diuretics or digitalis)

• Left ventricular dysfunction after myocardial infarction

• Diabetic nephropathy (particularly in type 1 diabetes)

Mechanism of Action:
Captopril inhibits the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), which reduces the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II — a potent vasoconstrictor. This leads to vasodilation, reduced aldosterone secretion, decreased blood pressure, and less strain on the heart.

Dosage:

• Hypertension: Typically 25–50 mg twice daily.

• Heart failure: Start with 6.25–12.5 mg two to three times daily, adjusted based on response.

• Post-myocardial infarction: Usually initiated under medical supervision.

• Should be taken 1 hour before meals for optimal absorption.

Precautions:

• Monitor renal function and serum potassium regularly.

• Use cautiously in patients with renal impairment or hypotension.

• Contraindicated in pregnancy and history of ACE inhibitor–induced angioedema.

• Avoid potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics unless directed by a doctor.

Common Side Effects:

• Dry, persistent cough

• Dizziness or hypotension

• Elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) or serum creatinine

• Hyperkalemia

• Rash or loss of taste

• Rare: Angioedema

Note:
Capotril is an effective first-line ACE inhibitor, especially useful in patients with hypertension, heart failure, or diabetic kidney disease, provided renal function and electrolytes are monitored regularly.