Cilazapril

About cilazapril

Cilazapril works by causing blood vessels to relax. This lowers blood pressure and increases the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart.

Before taking cilazapril

Before taking cilazapril make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from kidney or liver disease.
• If you suffer from ascites (a build up of fluid in the abdomen).
• If you suffer from a collagen vascular disease, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or scleroderma.
• If you are on a salt restricted diet or use salt substitutes which contain potassium.
• If you have cardiomyopathy (cardiac muscle disease), poor circulation, or aortic stenosis (narrowing of the blood vessel from the heart).
• If you have atherosclerosis (the build up of fatty deposits on the walls of arteries).
• If you are having dialysis, LDL apheresis (the removal of cholesterol from the blood by a machine) or desensitisation treatment for bee and wasp stings.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to take cilazapril

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Try to take cilazapril at the same time each day to avoid missing any doses. It is best if you take them in the morning with a drink of water.
• If you forget to take a dose, take one as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose. Do not take two doses on the same day to make up. If in doubt, speak to your pharmacist or doctor.

Getting the most from your treatment

• If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
• Keep your regular doctor's appointment so your progress can be monitored.
• Treatment with cilazapril is usually life-long. Do not stop taking this medicine without speaking to your doctor first.
• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with cilazapril.

Can cilazapril cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

How to store cilazapril

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines