Ramipril Flashcards
generic name
ramipril
trade name
altace
therapeutic class
antihypertensive
pharmacological class
angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor
indications
Reduction of MI, stroke, and death from cardiovascular disease in patients at risk
What is the action (how does the drug work)?
- ACE inhibitors block the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II.
- Prevents the degradation of bradykinin and other vasodilators prostaglandins.
- Increases plasma renin levels and decreases aldosterone levels. This results in systemic vasodilation
What is the desired effect?
Lowers blood pressure.
Decreases risk of heart attacks, stroke, or death from cardiovascular events in high-risk patients.
Slows the progression of potential heart failure after a heart attack.
What are the therapeutic effects of Ramipril?
- Lowering BP
- Improved symptoms in patients with HF
- Improved survival and decreased development of overt HF after MI
- Decreased risk of MI, stroke, or death from cardiovascular causes in high risk patients
common side effect
cough, hypotension,
ANGIOEDEMA = most critical
How is this medication administered?
Capsule is opened and sprinkled on applesauce, or dissolved in 4 oz water or apple juice.
- Medication must be taken at the SAME TIME everyday
- Prepared mixtures can be stored for up to 24 hours at room temp or up to 48 hours if refrigerated.
Why is Miki taking Ramipril?
To lower her blood pressure to reduce the risk of another stroke. This medication promotes vasodilation
If Miki began coughing what could this mean?
Miki could be sick, aspirating due to her dysphasia, or is it a side effect of the Ramipril?
what could you do if the cough from ramipril becomes an annoyance?
change the drug to another class
What happens when you take Ramipril and timoptic?
If timoptic gets into your systemic absorption, it can cause bradycardia and lowered BP, this increases dizziness, and potentially increases a patient’s fall risk
What assessments should you do when taking Ramipril?
- Monitor BP and pulse frequently = signs of hypertension
- Monitor weight and assess patient routinely for fluid overload (can see it in peripheral edema, rales/crackles, dyspnea, weight gain, jugular venous distension).
- Assess patient for signs of ANGIOEDEMA (swelling of face, extremities, eyes, lips, tongue, difficulty in swallowing or breathing)
What lab results would you need to monitor?
- BUN=blood urine nitrogen (increased)
- Creatinine (increased)
- Electrolyte levels
- Serum potassium (increased)
- Sodium levels (decreased)
- CBC (certain drugs can cause a slight decrease in hemoglobin, hematocrit, leukopenia, and eosinophilia)
