Captopril belongs to a class of medications called angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs). ACEIs block the substances that constrict the blood vessels and hence more blood and oxygen can reach the heart. Captopril is therefore used in treating and preventing heart conditions, such as congestive heart failure and myocardial infarction. It is also used to treat diabetic kidney disease.
Captopril is taken by mouth as tablets. It should be taken on an empty stomach (1 hour before or 2 hours after meal).
The dosage may be adjusted by your doctor depending on your medical condition and response to medication.
High blood pressure
Adult
Initially 25-75 mg daily in 2-3 divided doses, adjusted according to clinical response. May increase after at least 2 weeks, to 100-150 mg daily in 2-3 divided doses as needed to reach target blood pressure.
Elderly
Initially 6.25 mg twice daily, adjust subsequent doses according to clinical response.
Child over 1 year
0.3 mg/kg body weight, given 3 times daily according to clinical response.
Infants and Neonates
0.15 mg/kg body weight, given 3 times daily according to clinical response.
Congestive heart failure
Adult
Initially 6.25-12.5 mg twice daily, increase gradually with at least 2 weeks intervals. Maintenance dose is 275-100 mg daily in divided doses.
Elderly
Initially 6.25 mg twice daily, adjust subsequent doses according to clinical response.
Child over 1 year
0.3 mg/kg body weight, given 3 times daily according to clinical response.
Infants and Neonates
0.15 mg/kg body weight, given 3 times daily according to clinical response.
Chronic treatment for myocardial infarction
Adult
Initially 6.25 mg within 3-16 days post-infarction, followed by 12.5 mg given 3 times daily, then 25 mg 3 times daily depending on patient response. Maintenance dose is 75-150 mg daily in 2-3 divided doses.
Elderly
Initially 6.25 mg twice daily, adjust subsequent doses according to clinical response.
Child over 1 year
0.3 mg/kg body weight, given 3 times daily according to clinical response.
Infants and Neonates
0.15 mg/kg body weight, given 3 times daily according to clinical response.
Diabetic kidney disease
Adult
75-100 mg daily in divided doses.
Elderly
Initially 6.25 mg twice daily.
Child over 1 year
0.3 mg/kg body weight, given 3 times daily according to clinical response.
Infants and Neonates
0.15 mg/kg body weight, given 3 times daily according to clinical response.
Common side effects of Captopril include insomnia, peptic ulcer, low blood pressure, angioedema, kidney impairment, dry cough, and elevated potassium levels.
Common dosing schedule:
Captopril may be taken 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Captopril may interact with:
Captopril can interact with a number of drugs. Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.
In Hong Kong, Captopril is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Captopril in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
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