About captopril
ACE inhibitor blood pressure medicine
Used for
- High blood pressure
- Heart failure
- After a heart attack
- Kidney protection in some people with diabetes
Usual adult dose
Usually 12.5–25 mg two or three times daily; dose varies by condition and kidney function.
Usual dose in children
For high blood pressure, usually 0.3 mg/kg per dose two or three times daily; specialist adjustment is needed.
Common side effects
- Dry cough
- Dizziness or low blood pressure
- High potassium
- Changes in kidney function
Important warnings
- Can cause serious harm to an unborn baby; avoid during pregnancy.
- Seek urgent care for swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
- May cause a marked blood-pressure drop, especially with dehydration or diuretics.
- Kidney function and potassium may need monitoring.
Pregnancy
Avoid during pregnancy because it can injure or kill the developing baby.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts enter breast milk; use in newborn or premature infants requires particular caution.
Interactions
- Potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics can raise potassium.
- NSAID pain relievers may worsen kidney function and reduce blood-pressure control.
- Lithium levels can rise.
- Other blood-pressure medicines or diuretics may increase dizziness or low blood pressure.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.