Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Accupril (Quinapril).
Angioedema: As with other medications in this family, Accupril (Quinapril) has been reported to cause angioedema (swelling of the mouth, lips, tongue, eye, or throat causing difficulty swallowing or breathing) in a small number of people. Accupril (Quinapril) may also cause intestinal angioedema. This condition develops as abdominal pain, sometimes with nausea or vomiting.
If any of these symptoms occur, stop taking Accupril (Quinapril) immediately and seek immediate medical attention. Also, consult your doctor immediately about any unexplained rash, fever, or itching. If you experience angioedema with Accupril (Quinapril), do not take any other ACE inhibitors (e.g., Enalapril, lisinopril, or ramipril).
Blood disorders: In rare cases, a low white blood cell count has been reported with people taking Accupril (Quinapril). Your doctor may occasionally monitor your level of white blood cells by performing blood tests. Low white blood cell levels may increase your risk for infection.
If you notice any signs of infection (e.g., fever, sore throat), contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Cough: People taking Accupril (Quinapril) may develop a dry, persistent cough that usually disappears only after stopping or lowering the dose of Accupril (Quinapril).
Diabetes: ACE inhibitors such as Accupril (Quinapril) may lead to Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels) in people with diabetes. If you have diabetes, discuss with your doctor how Accupril (Quinapril) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Accupril (Quinapril), and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Kidney function: Changes in kidney function have occurred in certain people who take Accupril (Quinapril). The use of diuretics (water pills) or aliskiren may further increase the risk of kidney problems for those already at risk for this problem. If you have reduced kidney function or kidney disease, discuss with your doctor how Accupril (Quinapril) may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Accupril (Quinapril), and whether any special monitoring is needed. If you have kidney function impairment you may require lower doses of Accupril (Quinapril).
Liver function: Accupril (Quinapril) may cause liver problems. If you experience any signs of liver problems such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, fever, generally feeling unwell, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, itching, muscle pain, rash, or swollen glands, contact your doctor immediately. If you have liver problems you will need to be closely monitored by your doctor while taking Accupril (Quinapril).
Low blood pressure: Occasionally, blood pressure drops too low after taking Accupril (Quinapril). This usually happens after the first or second dose or when the dose is increased. It is more likely to occur for those who take the medication aliskiren, diuretics, have a salt-restricted diet, are on dialysis, have diarrhea, or are vomiting.
To reduce the risk of dizziness, get up slowly from a lying or sitting position. If low blood pressure causes you to faint or feel lightheaded, contact your doctor.
Planned surgery: Accupril (Quinapril) can affect with how the body responds to certain medications that are used in surgery. If you have surgery planned, make sure your medical team knows you are taking Accupril (Quinapril).
Potassium levels: Increases in blood levels of potassium occur for approximately 2% of people who take Accupril (Quinapril). This rarely causes problems, but your doctor will likely want to monitor your potassium levels through blood tests.
Reduced alertness: Accupril (Quinapril) may reduce alertness, especially at the beginning of treatment. Do not drive or perform tasks that require alertness until you know how Accupril (Quinapril) affects you.
Pregnancy: ACE inhibitors such as Accupril (Quinapril) may cause severe harm or death to the developing baby if taken by the mother during pregnancy. Accupril (Quinapril) should not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant while taking Accupril (Quinapril), stop taking Accupril (Quinapril) immediately and contact your doctor.
Breast-feeding: Accupril (Quinapril) may pass into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking Accupril (Quinapril), it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.
Children: The safety and effectiveness of Accupril (Quinapril) have not been established for use by children. Accupril (Quinapril) is not recommended for this age group.
