Altace (Ramipril)

Altace is a medicine used to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and death from heart problems. This medicine is also used alone or in combination with diuretics (water pills) to treat high blood pressure. It is also used to stabilize people after a heart attack by preventing heart failure.

Altace can cause a rare but serious allergic reaction leading to extreme swelling of your face, lips, tongue, throat, or gut (causing severe abdominal pain). You may have an increased risk of experiencing these symptoms if you have ever had an allergy to angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor-type medicines or if you are African American. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Tell your doctor if you experience lightheadedness, especially during the first few days of Altace therapy. If you faint, stop taking Altace and tell your doctor immediately. Vomiting, diarrhea, fever, exercise, hot weather, alcohol, excessive perspiration, and dehydration may lead to an excessive fall in your blood pressure. Tell your doctor if you experience any of these. Make sure to drink plenty of fluids when you are taking Altace. Altace may decrease your blood neutrophil levels (type of blood cells that fight infections), especially if you have a collagen vascular disease (such as lupus [disease that affects the immune system]) or kidney disease. Promptly report any signs of infection (such as sore throat or fever) to your doctor. Altace is not recommended in people with severe kidney problems. Patients who take a medicine for high blood pressure often feel tired or run down for a few weeks after starting treatment. Be sure to take your medicine even if you may not feel “normal.” Tell your doctor if you develop any new symptoms. Altace may not work as well in African Americans; African Americans may also be at greater risk to have side effects. Contact your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse.