Perindopril

Perindopril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and heart failure. It works by relaxing blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily, which helps lower blood pressure and improve heart function. It is an orally active ACE inhibitor considered very valuable in treatment of congestive heart failure.

Indications

-Hypertension: Perindopril is used to treat high blood pressure. -Heart Failure: It can be prescribed to manage heart failure, helping to improve heart function. -Stable Coronary Artery Disease: Perindopril can be used to reduce the risk of cardiac events in individuals with stable coronary artery disease.

Dosage

Start with 2 mg daily in morning after 1-2 weeks increase gradually to maintenance dose of 4mg daily under close supervision only. Diuretic if any, should be discontinued 3 days before initiating the therapy.

Contra-Indications

-Hypersensitivity to perindopril or other ACE inhibitors. -History of angioedema related to previous ACE inhibitor treatment. -Pregnancy and breastfeeding. -Bilateral renal artery stenosis or significant renal impairment. -Concomitant use of aliskiren in patients with diabetes.

Special Precautions

Renovascular hypertension, renal impairment. It may cause hypotension in patients undergoing major surgery or during anesthesia. Paediatrics: Not recommended. Pregnancy: Should not be used. Lactation: Should not be used. Elderly: Reduce the dose to half.

Side Effects

Cough, fatigue, headache, sleep disturbance, proteinuria, decrease in haemoglobin, red blood corpuscles & platelets, angioneurotic oedema.

Drug Interactions

-Diuretics: May enhance hypotensive effects. -NSAIDs: Concurrent use can reduce antihypertensive effects and increase the risk of kidney dysfunction. -Potassium-Sparing Diuretics or Supplements: Increases the risk of hyperkalemia. -Other Antihypertensives: Can result in an additive effect on lowering blood pressure.