What is the most important information I should know about Altace?
* Do not take Altace if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy. When used during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, Altace can cause injury and even death to the developing fetus. Notify your doctor immediately if you think you might be pregnant.
* Altace may increase the risk of dangerous allergic reactions. Before taking Altace, tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction that involved swelling of your lips, face, tongue, or throat or difficulty breathing. Seek emergency medical attention if you develop any of these symptoms while taking Altace.
* Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Altace may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities and notify your doctor. Also use caution when rising from a sitting or lying position.
* Heavy sweating, vomiting, diarrhea, or other causes of fluid loss may lead to very low blood pressure, dizziness, and fainting during therapy with Altace. Maintain proper fluid intake to prevent dehydration and related adverse effects.
What is Altace?
* Altace is in a class of drugs called angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors).
* Altace is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure), to prevent heart failure following a heart attack, and to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and death in patients who are at an increased risk for these problems.
* Altace may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
Who should not take Altace?
* Altace may increase the risk of dangerous allergic reactions. Before taking Altace, tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction that involved swelling of your lips, face, tongue, or throat or difficulty breathing. Seek emergency medical attention if you develop any of these symptoms while taking Altace.
* Before taking Altace, tell your doctor if you
o have kidney disease;
o have liver disease;
o are on a salt-restricted diet or have high levels of potassium in your blood; or
o are taking salt substitutes, potassium supplements (e