Quinapril Medication: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Interactions

Summary of Key Points

Quinapril is a prescription medication primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and heart failure. It belongs to a class of drugs known as ACE inhibitors, which work by relaxing blood vessels to improve blood flow. Quinapril may also be prescribed for other conditions, such as chronic kidney disease and stroke prevention. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or adjusting your Quinapril dosage.

Names of Medication

US Brand Name: Accupril

Generic Name: Quinapril

The generic name refers to the active ingredient in the medication, while the brand name is assigned by the manufacturer. In this article, the generic name is listed in parentheses.

Pharmacologic Category

Quinapril is classified as an Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitor.

Other medications in this category include:

1. Lisinopril
2. Enalapril
3. Ramipril
4. Captopril

Quinapril Dosage

Quinapril is prescribed for various conditions. Below are the recommended doses for adults. Always consult your doctor before making any changes to your dosage. You may also consider scheduling a telemedicine appointment with one of our providers for personalized advice.

Quinapril for Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Initial dose: 10 to 20 mg once daily. Maintenance dose: 20 to 40 mg per day, taken as a single dose or divided into two doses. Treatment is typically long-term to manage blood pressure.

Quinapril for Heart Failure

Initial dose: 5 mg twice daily. Maintenance dose: 20 to 40 mg per day, divided into two doses. The duration of treatment depends on the severity of heart failure and how well the patient responds to the medication.

Left Ventricular Dysfunction

Initial dose: 5 mg twice daily. Maintenance dose: 20 to 40 mg per day, divided into two doses. Treatment is long-term to improve heart function.

Quinapril for Diabetic Nephropathy (Kidney Disease in Diabetics)

Initial dose: 10 to 20 mg once daily. Maintenance dose: 20 to 40 mg per day, taken as a single dose or divided into two doses. Treatment is typically long-term.

Quinapril for Chronic Kidney Disease

Initial dose: 10 to 20 mg once daily. Maintenance dose: 20 to 40 mg per day, taken as a single dose or divided into two doses. Treatment is usually long-term to protect kidney function.

Post-Myocardial Infarction (After a Heart Attack)

Initial dose: 5 mg twice daily. Maintenance dose: 20 to 40 mg per day, divided into two doses. The duration of treatment depends on the patient’s condition and response to the medication.

Proteinuria (Excess Protein in Urine)

Initial dose: 10 to 20 mg once daily. Maintenance dose: 20 to 40 mg per day, taken as a single dose or divided into two doses. Treatment is long-term to reduce protein levels in the urine.

Cardiovascular Disease and Stroke Prevention

Initial dose: 10 to 20 mg once daily. Maintenance dose: 20 to 40 mg per day, taken as a single dose or divided into two doses. Treatment is typically long-term to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events.

Atherosclerosis (Hardening of the Arteries)

Initial dose: 10 to 20 mg once daily. Maintenance dose: 20 to 40 mg per day, taken as a single dose or divided into two doses. Treatment is long-term to manage the condition.

Dosage Forms and Strengths of Quinapril

Quinapril is available in tablet form with the following strengths:

1. 5 mg
2. 10 mg
3. 20 mg
4. 40 mg

Contraindications for Quinapril

A contraindication is a specific situation where a medication should not be used because it may be harmful. If you have any of the conditions listed below, Quinapril may not be safe for you. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medication.

1. Allergy to Quinapril or other ACE inhibitors: If you have had an allergic reaction to Quinapril or other ACE inhibitors (such as Lisinopril or Enalapril), taking Quinapril could cause a serious allergic reaction, including swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (angioedema).
2. Pregnancy: Quinapril can harm an unborn baby, especially in the second and third trimesters. It may cause injury or even death to the developing fetus.
3. History of angioedema: If you have ever experienced angioedema (swelling under the skin), Quinapril may increase your risk of another episode.
4. Severe kidney disease: Quinapril may worsen kidney function in people with certain types of kidney disease. Your doctor may need to adjust your dose or choose a different medication.
5. Hyperkalemia (high potassium levels): Quinapril can increase potassium levels in the blood, which can be dangerous if you already have elevated potassium levels.

Quinapril Drug Interactions

Quinapril can interact with other medications, potentially increasing the risk of side effects or reducing the effectiveness of either drug. Be sure to inform your healthcare provider of all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Notable drug interactions include:

1. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), Naproxen (Aleve) – These medications may reduce Quinapril’s blood pressure-lowering effects and worsen kidney function.
2. Diuretics (water pills): Furosemide (Lasix), Hydrochlorothiazide (Microzide) – These medications, when taken with Quinapril, may increase the risk of low blood pressure (hypotension) or high potassium levels.
3. Potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics: Spironolactone (Aldactone), Eplerenone (Inspra) – These can raise potassium levels in the blood, which can be dangerous when combined with Quinapril.
4. Other blood pressure medications: Losartan (Cozaar), Valsartan (Diovan) – Combining these with Quinapril can increase the risk of low blood pressure or kidney problems.
5. Lithium: Lithium (Lithobid) – Quinapril may increase lithium levels in the blood, leading to toxicity.

Quinapril in Pregnancy

Is it safe to take Quinapril when pregnant?

No, Quinapril is not considered safe during pregnancy. It belongs to a group of medications known as ACE inhibitors, which can cause significant harm to an unborn baby, especially during the second and third trimesters. Taking Quinapril while pregnant may lead to serious complications, including birth defects, kidney failure, or even fetal death. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider to discuss safer alternatives. If you discover you are pregnant while taking Quinapril, contact your doctor immediately to discuss discontinuing the medication.

Quinapril While Breastfeeding

Is it safe to take Quinapril while breastfeeding?

It is generally not recommended to take Quinapril while breastfeeding. Quinapril can pass into breast milk, and although the full effects on a nursing infant are not entirely understood, there is a potential risk of harm. If you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, speak with your healthcare provider about alternative blood pressure medications to ensure the safety of your baby.

Estimated Cost of Quinapril Medication

The estimated cost of a 30-day supply of Quinapril without insurance, when using a GoodRx coupon, typically ranges from $10 to $20, depending on the pharmacy and dosage. Prices may vary, so it’s a good idea to check with your local pharmacy or use a prescription savings program like GoodRx to find the most affordable option.

Possible Alternatives to Quinapril

If Quinapril is not suitable for you, there are other medications and lifestyle changes that may help manage your condition. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. You can also schedule a telemedicine visit with one of our providers to explore these alternatives.

Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Alternative treatments include other classes of blood pressure medications, such as calcium channel blockers (Amlodipine), beta-blockers (Metoprolol), or angiotensin II receptor blockers (Losartan). In addition, lifestyle changes like reducing salt intake, engaging in regular physical activity, and achieving a healthy weight can also help lower blood pressure.

Heart Failure

Medications such as beta-blockers (Carvedilol), diuretics (Furosemide), or angiotensin II receptor blockers (Valsartan) may be prescribed. Dietary adjustments, including reducing sodium and fluid intake, can also be beneficial in managing heart failure.

Left Ventricular Dysfunction

Other ACE inhibitors (Lisinopril) or angiotensin II receptor blockers (Losartan) may be considered. Additionally, cardiac rehabilitation and lifestyle modifications can help improve heart function.

Diabetic Nephropathy

Angiotensin II receptor blockers (Irbesartan) or other blood pressure medications may be used to protect kidney function. Managing blood sugar levels through diet and medication is also crucial in slowing the progression of diabetic nephropathy.

Chronic Kidney Disease

Angiotensin II receptor blockers (Losartan) or diuretics may be prescribed to help manage chronic kidney disease. Dietary changes, such as reducing protein intake, can also play a role in slowing the progression of the disease.

Post-Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack)

Beta-blockers (Metoprolol) or angiotensin II receptor blockers (Valsartan) may be recommended after a heart attack. Cardiac rehabilitation and lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and adopting a heart-healthy diet, are also important for recovery and long-term heart health.

Proteinuria (Excess Protein in Urine)

Angiotensin II receptor blockers (Losartan) or diuretics may be used to manage proteinuria. Controlling underlying conditions like diabetes or hypertension is key to reducing excess protein in the urine.

Cardiovascular Disease

Statins (Atorvastatin) to lower cholesterol, beta-blockers (Metoprolol), and lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and a heart-healthy diet can help manage cardiovascular disease and reduce the risk of complications.

Stroke Prevention

Medications such as blood thinners (Aspirin, Warfarin), statins (Atorvastatin), and blood pressure medications like calcium channel blockers (Amlodipine) can help reduce the risk of stroke. Lifestyle changes, including quitting smoking and managing stress, are also important for stroke prevention.

Atherosclerosis (Hardening of the Arteries)

Statins (Atorvastatin) to lower cholesterol, along with blood pressure medications and lifestyle changes like a low-fat diet and regular exercise, can help slow the progression of atherosclerosis.

Recent Updates on Quinapril Research

Recent studies have explored the long-term effects of Quinapril in patients with chronic kidney disease and heart failure. Research suggests that Quinapril may help slow the progression of kidney disease in individuals with diabetes and high blood pressure. Additionally, ongoing studies are investigating Quinapril’s potential benefits in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which are linked to cardiovascular disease. However, further research is needed to fully understand these effects. Always consult your healthcare provider to stay informed about the latest treatment options. You can also schedule a telemedicine visit with one of our providers to discuss the most recent research and how it may impact your treatment plan.

James Kingsley

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