Mavik

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Mavik

If Mavik is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Mavik with the following:

Diuretics such as HydroDIURIL
Diuretics that spare the body's potassium, such as Aldactone, Dyazide, and Moduretic
Lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid)
Potassium preparations such as Micro-K and Slow-K

Also check with your doctor before using potassium-containing salt substitutes.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

ACE inhibitors such as Mavik can cause injury and even death to the developing baby when used during the last 6 months of pregnancy. At the first sign of pregnancy, stop taking Mavik and contact your doctor immediately.

Mavik may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. Do not take this medication while you are nursing.

Recommended dosage

ADULTS

High Blood Pressure

The usual starting dose if you are not taking a diuretic is 1 milligram once a day; African-Americans should start on 2 milligrams once a day.

Depending on your blood pressure response, your doctor may increase your dosage at 1-week intervals, up to 2 to 4 milligrams once a day. If your blood pressure still does not respond, your dosage may be increased to 4 milligrams twice a day and the doctor may add a diuretic to your regimen.

If you are already taking a diuretic, your doctor will have you stop taking it 2 to 3 days before you start treatment with Mavik. If your diuretic should not be stopped, your starting dose of Mavik will be 0.5 milligram. A starting dose of 0.5 milligram daily is also recommended for people with liver or kidney disease.

Treatment After Heart Attack

The usual starting dose is 1 milligram once a day. The doctor will gradually increase the dose up to a maximum of 4 milligrams once a day.

If you have poor kidney function or cirrhosis of the liver, your starting dose, for either high blood pressure or heart attack, will probably be lowered to 0.5 milligram once daily.

CHILDREN

The safety and effectiveness of Mavik in children have not been established.

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. The most likely effects of a Mavik overdose are light-headedness or dizziness due to a sudden drop in blood pressure. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.