Quinapril-Hydrochlorothiazide Oral
In Depth
- Uses and How to Use
- Dosage and Storage
- Precautions and Side Effects
- Drug Interactions
- Drug Images
Pronounced: (KWIN-uh-prill w/HI-dro-klor-oh-THIGH-uh-zide)
Quinapril-Hydrochlorothiazide Oral Uses
This medication is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems.
This product contains two medications, quinapril and hydrochlorothiazide. Quinapril belongs to a class of drugs known as ACE inhibitors. It works by relaxing blood vessels so blood can flow more easily. Hydrochlorothiazide (or "The thiazide diuretic") increases the amount of urine you make, removing extra water and salt from your body. These medications are used together when one drug is not controlling your blood pressure.
How To Use Quinapril-Hydrochlorothiazide Oral
Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually once daily or as directed by your doctor. It is best to avoid taking this medication within 4 hours of your bedtime to avoid having to get up to urinate. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about your dosing schedule.
Drink plenty of fluids to prevent losing too much body water (dehydration). If you are on restricted fluid intake, consult your doctor for further instructions.
If you are taking a tetracycline antibiotic (e.g., doxycycline, tetracycline), take it at least 3 hours apart from this medicine. If you are taking a quinolone antibiotic (e.g., ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin), consult your pharmacist for the proper times to take this medicine. This product contains magnesium, which can interfere with absorption of these antibiotics.
Do not take potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium without talking to your doctor or pharmacist first. This medicine can infrequently raise or lower your potassium blood levels. This effect can rarely cause serious side effects such as muscle weakness/cramping or very slow heartbeat. Tell your doctor immediately if these effects occur.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. Do not skip doses or stop taking this medication unless directed by your doctor. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick. It may take up to several weeks before the full benefit of this drug takes effect.
Inform your doctor if your condition worsens (e.g., your routine blood pressure readings increase).
