Ripril 2.5

Indications

Ripril serves various medical purposes, including:

• Management of Hypertension: It effectively reduces blood pressure either as a standalone treatment or in conjunction with other antihypertensive medications.
• Treatment of Congestive Heart Failure: When combined with diuretics, Ripril aids in managing congestive heart failure.
• Post-Myocardial Infarction Care: Ripril is recommended for patients showing signs of congestive heart failure within days after experiencing a heart attack.
• Kidney Conditions: It is used to treat both diabetic and non-diabetic patients with kidney disorders like glomerular or incipient nephropathy.
• Cardiovascular Risk Reduction: Ripril decreases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular-related deaths, particularly in patients with existing cardiovascular issues or diabetes accompanied by other risk factors.

Pharmacology

Ripril, an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, inhibits the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a vasoconstrictor. By reducing plasma angiotensin II levels, it decreases vasopressor activity and aldosterone secretion, effectively lowering blood pressure. Additionally, Ripril manages heart failure and diminishes the risk of cardiovascular events, such as strokes and heart attacks. Its prolonged action and good tolerability make it suitable for long-term therapy.

Dosage

The dosage of Ripril should be tailored to individual patient response and tolerance:

• For hypertension management, the initial dose is typically 1.25-2.5 mg daily, with adjustments made at intervals of no less than two weeks.
• In congestive heart failure post-myocardial infarction, therapy usually starts with 2.5 mg twice daily, titrated to a target dose of 5 mg twice daily.
• To prevent major cardiovascular events, the recommended dose is 2.5 mg once daily initially, increasing to 10 mg once daily as tolerated.

Dosage adjustments are necessary for patients with renal impairment.

Administration

Ripril tablets should be swallowed whole with plenty of liquid and can be taken with or without food. Crushing or chewing the tablets is not recommended.

Interactions

Ripril may interact with other medications, such as diuretics, lithium, and NSAIDs, potentially affecting blood pressure and renal function. Patients should avoid alcohol consumption while taking Ripril.

Contraindications

Ripril should not be used in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to ACE inhibitors, angioedema, or during pregnancy. It is contraindicated in patients with renal artery stenosis and those on sacubitril/valsartan therapy.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Ripril include dizziness, headache, fatigue, and cough. Rare but severe side effects may include angioedema and hyperkalemia.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Ripril is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to potential harm to the fetus or infant.

Precautions & Warnings

Ripril should be used cautiously in patients with renal impairment, hyperkalemia, hypotension, and hepatic impairment.

Use in Special Populations

Elderly patients and those with hepatic or renal impairment may require dose adjustments.

Overdose Effects

Overdose may lead to hypotension, electrolyte disturbances, and renal failure. Management involves supportive measures and close monitoring.

Therapeutic Class

Ripril belongs to the class of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors.

Storage Conditions

Store Ripril tablets at or below 30°C, protected from light, and out of reach of children. Use before the expiry date and only as prescribed by a registered physician.