Macpril H 5

MACPRIL H 5 is a combination medication manufactured by Macleods Pharmaceuticals Ltd., primarily used for managing hypertension.

Name

• Brand Name: MACPRIL H 5

Composition

MACPRIL H 5 contains two active ingredients:

• Ramipril: 5 mg
• Hydrochlorothiazide: 12.5 mg

Ramipril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor that relaxes blood vessels, while Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic that helps remove excess water and salt from the body.

Uses

MACPRIL H 5 is prescribed for:

• Managing hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Reducing the risk of future heart attacks and strokes in individuals with cardiovascular conditions.
• Treating edema (swelling) associated with heart, liver, kidney, or lung disease by reducing excess fluid overload.
• Managing kidney problems related to diabetes.

Dosage and Administration

• MACPRIL H 5 should be taken exactly as prescribed by a doctor.
• It is typically taken once a day, with or without food, preferably in the morning to avoid frequent nighttime urination.
• Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush or chew it.
• Maintain a consistent intake time each day to ensure stable blood levels and maximize effectiveness.
• Do not stop taking the medicine abruptly without consulting your doctor, as this may worsen your condition.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Dizziness, lightheadedness, or vertigo
• Headache
• Fatigue or unusual tiredness/weakness
• Nausea, vomiting, indigestion, or diarrhea
• Dry cough
• Changes in taste

Serious side effects, though rare, may include:

• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (angioedema)
• Severe allergic reactions
• Low blood pressure (hypotension), especially causing dizziness or fainting
• Electrolyte imbalances (e.g., low potassium or sodium, high potassium)
• Kidney problems or worsening of existing kidney disease
• Liver issues
• Altered heart rhythm

Precautions

• Pregnancy: MACPRIL H 5 is contraindicated during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy due to definite evidence of risk to the developing baby. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy.
• Breastfeeding: Not advised for breastfeeding women as it may pass into breast milk, though its effect on the baby is unknown.
• Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol as it may increase side effects like dizziness and lightheadedness, and can further lower blood pressure.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you experience dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision.
• Medical Conditions: Use with caution in patients with liver disease, kidney disease, gout, diabetes, or a history of angioedema.
• Allergies: Do not take if allergic to Ramipril, Hydrochlorothiazide, other ACE inhibitors, or sulfonamide-derived medicines.
• Potassium Supplements: Avoid potassium supplements as they may lead to high potassium levels in the blood.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration due to the diuretic effect of hydrochlorothiazide.
• Children: Not recommended for children below 18 years of age due to unknown safety and effectiveness.

Storage

• Store MACPRIL H 5 in a cool, dry place at room temperature (between 15°C to 30°C), away from direct heat and humidity.
• Keep the medicine out of the reach of children and pets.
• Do not use expired medicines.

MACPRIL H 5 by MACLEODS PHARMACEUTICALS LTD. - Frequently Asked Questions

What is MACPRIL H 5 used for?

MACPRIL H 5 is primarily used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). It can be prescribed alone or in combination with other medications to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of associated cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes. It also helps manage edema (swelling) caused by excess fluid in the body, which can be associated with heart, liver, kidney, or lung disease.

How does MACPRIL H 5 work?

MACPRIL H 5 contains two active ingredients: Ramipril (5mg) and Hydrochlorothiazide (12.5mg).

• Ramipril is an Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. It works by blocking the action of a hormone called angiotensin II, which normally tightens blood vessels. By blocking this, Ramipril allows blood vessels to relax and widen, making it easier for blood to flow and thus lowering blood pressure.
• Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic, also known as a "water pill." It increases the amount of urine passed out from the kidneys, helping to remove excess water and salt from the body. This reduces fluid levels and the workload on the heart, further contributing to lower blood pressure.

What is the usual dosage?

MACPRIL H 5 is typically taken orally once daily, preferably in the morning to avoid frequent nighttime urination. It can be taken with or without food. The exact dosage and duration will be determined by your doctor based on your medical condition and response to the medication. It is crucial to follow your doctor's instructions and not to stop taking the medicine abruptly, even if your blood pressure normalizes, as this could worsen your condition.

What are the possible side effects?

Common side effects of MACPRIL H 5 may include headaches, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dry cough, and changes in taste. Some individuals may also experience lightheadedness, weakness, or electrolyte imbalances. If these side effects persist or worsen, you should consult your doctor. Serious but rare side effects can include swelling of the face, lips, or tongue (angioedema), severe allergic reactions, or kidney problems.

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

MACPRIL H 5 is not recommended during pregnancy and lactation. It is contraindicated during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy due to potential harm to the unborn baby. If you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding, you must consult your doctor for alternative treatment options.

Can it be taken with other medications?

MACPRIL H 5 can interact with several other medications. It is important to inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking.

• Potassium supplements and potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., spironolactone, amiloride, triamterene) should be avoided as they can lead to dangerously high potassium levels in the blood (hyperkalemia).
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen may reduce the blood pressure-lowering effect and can contribute to kidney problems.
• Combining with other blood pressure medications may cause a significant drop in blood pressure.
• Lithium levels may increase, leading to toxicity.
• Diabetes medications (e.g., insulin, oral hypoglycemics) may have their blood sugar-lowering effects increased, raising the risk of hypoglycemia.

What precautions should be taken?

• Alcohol consumption should be avoided as it can increase the risk of low blood pressure, dizziness, and other side effects.
• Driving or operating heavy machinery should be done with caution, as this medicine can cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision.
• Inform your doctor if you have liver disease, kidney disease, or diabetes, as dose adjustments or close monitoring may be required.
• Regular monitoring of blood pressure, kidney function, and electrolyte levels is recommended during treatment.
• Avoid a high-potassium diet.
• Stay adequately hydrated to prevent dehydration, as the diuretic component increases urine output.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you miss a dose of MACPRIL H 5, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose.

How should it be stored?

MACPRIL H 5 should be stored in a cool, dry place, below 30°C, and protected from direct sunlight and moisture. Keep it out of sight and reach of children and pets. Do not use expired medicine and discard any unused medicine properly.