Captopril Effects on Children

Captopril is an ACE inhibitor medication used in the treatment of heart failure, high blood pressure and diabetic kidney problems. The medication works by helping to relax blood vessels in users, which in turn helps to alleviate symptoms related to the above ailments. In children, this medication is used mostly in the treatment of symptoms related to diabetes. As with most medications, a number of side effects are known to affect children while using this drug.

Common Side Effects

• As mentioned, Captopril has certain side effects on children. Some of these side effects include diarrhea, cough, light-headedness, dizziness, fever, general fatigue, itching, joint pain, headache, taste changes, weakness, vomiting and nausea. While these are the most common side effects that occur in children while using this medication, they only affect a small number of users.

Severe Side Effects

• Unfortunately, there are also a number of severe side effects that have also been reported in some children. Some of these side effects include severe allergic reaction, hives, difficulty breathing, tightening of the chest, skin rash, swelling of the lips and mouth, fever, sore throat, chest pain, fainting, difficulty swallowing, irregular heartbeat and yellowing of the skin and eyes. These side effects also are rare and do not affect a large number of children.

Important Safety Information

• Captopril has been known to cause increased dizziness and drowsiness in users. As a result, it it recommended that children avoid any type of strenuous activity while taking this medication. This medication has also been known not to work well and cause severe side effects in black patients, and it is recommended to consult with a doctor before beginning treatment with this medication. Lab tests may be required in some users to monitor progress and ensure that the medication is working properly.

Use

• Always use Captopril exactly as it was prescribed by your doctor and never in dosages larger than what has been recommended on the label. The medication is administered in pill form and should be taken on an empty stomach approximately one hour prior to a meal. Captopril works best if taken at the same time every day, so try to develop a regular schedule that enables users to maintain a routine throughout the course of treatment.

Warning

• If you experience any of the aforementioned side effects, contact your doctor immediately for an adjusted treatment method.

  If an overdose is suspected, contact the poison control center and head directly to the nearest emergency room.

  Captopril is meant to treat the above ailments only and should not be used for any other medical condition unless specifically prescribed by a doctor.