Moexipril

About moexipril

Moexipril works by preventing the production of a hormone called angiotensin II. Angiotensin II causes blood vessels to narrow, and leads to the production of another hormone called aldosterone which increases the amount of fluid in the blood. The action of moexipril results in the widening of blood vessels and a reduction in the amount of fluid in the blood, which together reduce the blood pressure.

Before taking moexipril

Before taking moexipril 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 problems.
• If you have heart failure.
• 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) 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 suffer from peripheral vascular disease (a particular type of poor circulation).
• If you are dehydrated (for example if you have had diarrhoea and sickness very recently).
• If you have a history of angioedema (where the face, tongue and throat swell) or have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
• If you are having LDL apheresis (the removal of cholesterol from the blood by a machine).
• If you are having desensitisation treatment for bee and wasp stings.
• If you have dialysis treatment.
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines.

How to take moexipril

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Take moexipril exactly as directed by your doctor. Your doctor may advise that you take your very first dose of moexipril just before going to bed.
• To avoid missing any doses, try to take moexipril at the same time on each day.
• 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.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Keep your regular appointments with your doctor. You will probably have to undergo blood tests and blood pressure tests to ensure the dose you are taking is right for you.
• Try to avoid too much alcohol, as it will affect your blood pressure. If you do drink alcohol, drink only in moderation and be aware of its effects on you.
• If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment that you are taking moexipril.
• Treatment with moexipril 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 moexipril.

Can moexipril 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 moexipril

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

Important information about all medicines