Monopril is used alone or in combination with other medications to treat high blood pressure. It is also used in combination with other medications to treat heart failure. Monopril is in a class of medications called angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It works by decreasing certain chemicals that tighten the blood vessels, so blood flows more smoothly and the heart can pump blood more efficiently.

How should Monopril be used?

Monopril comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once or twice a day. To help you remember to take Monopril, take it around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Monopril exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Your doctor will probably start you on a low dose of Monopril and gradually increase your dose.

Monopril controls high blood pressure and heart failure but does not cure them. Continue to take Monopril even if you feel well. Do not stop taking Monopril without talking to your doctor.

Other uses for Monopril This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

What special precautions should I follow?

Before taking Monopril,

tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to Monopril, benazepril (Lotensin), captopril (Capoten), enalapril (Vasotec), lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril), moexipril (Univasc), perindopril (Aceon), quinapril (Accupril), ramipril (Altace), trandolapril (Mavik), or any other medications.
tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking. Be sure to mention any of the following: diuretics ('water pills'); lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid); and potassium supplements. Your doctor may need to change the doses of
your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
if you are taking antacids (Maalox, Mylanta), take them 2 hours before or after Monopril. tell your doctor if you are on dialysis and if you have or have ever had lupus; scleroderma; heart failure; high
blood pressure; diabetes; or liver or kidney disease.
tell your doctor if you plan to become pregnant or are breast-feeding.
if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking Monopril.
you should know that diarrhea, vomiting, not drinking enough fluids, and sweating a lot can cause a drop in blood pressure, which may cause lightheadedness and fainting.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Talk to your doctor before using salt substitutes containing potassium. If your doctor prescribes a low-salt or low-sodium diet, follow these instructions carefully.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Monopril may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

dizziness
cough
upset stomach
vomiting
diarrhea
headache
excessive tiredness
weakness

Some side effects can be serious. The following symptoms are uncommon, but if you experience any of them, call your doctor immediately:

swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
hoarseness
difficulty breathing or swallowing
yellowing of the skin or eyes
fever, sore throat, chills, and other signs of infection
lightheadedness
fainting

Monopril may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.

What storage conditions are needed for Monopril?

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

In case of emergency/overdose

In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

Symptoms of overdose may include:

dizziness
lightheadedness
fainting

What other information should I know?

Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your blood pressure should be checked regularly to determine your response to Monopril. Your doctor may order certain lab tests to check your body's response to Monopril.

Before having any laboratory test, tell your doctor and the laboratory personnel that you are taking Monopril.

Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.