Cardiovascular meds: Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors: captopril (Capoten)

Captopril MOA

Decreases BP by interrupting the renin-angiotensin activating system (RAAS) by blocking the conversion on angiotensin 1 to angiotensin 2 & increasing levels of bradykinin resulting in vasodilation, excretion of sodium & water, & retention of potassium

Therapeutic use

• HTN

• Heart failure

• Myocardial Infarction (MI)

• Diabetic and nondiabetic nephropathy

Complications

First-dose orthostatic hypotension

Cough

Hyperkalemia

Rash and dysgeusia (altered taste)

Angioedema 

Neutropenia

contraindications

Pregnancy 

Lactation

Allergy

Caution with kidney impairment

Drug to Drug interactions

Diuretics

Antihypertensive meds

Potassium supplements & potassium sparing diuretics 

Lithium

NSAIDS

Education

Given PO

Take 1 hr before meals

Notify HCP of cough, dizziness, or infection 

Change positions slowly

Avoid salt substitutes as many of them are high in potassium