DRUG STUDY

DRUG ORDER
(Generic name, Brand name,
classification, dosage, route,
frequency)
MECHANISM OF
ACTION
INDICATIONS CONTRAINDICATIONS
ADVERSE EFFECTS OF THE
DRUG
NURSING
RESPONSIBILITIES/
PRECAUTIONS
Generic Name: Captopril
Brand Names: Capoten, Acepril,
Ace-Bloc, Bloc-Med, Capomed,
Capotec, Captogen, Captor,
Captril, Cardiovaz
Classification: ACE Inhibitor
Pregnancy Category: D
Used to block the
action of
angiotensin
converting enzyme
(ACE) which is
naturally produced
in the body. ACE
produces
angiotensin II
which causes
constriction and
narrowing of the
blood vessels
thereby increasing
blood pressure. By
blocking ACE,
production of
angiotensin II
decreases allowing
the blood vessels
to relax and widen
resulting in
decrease blood
pressure.
Captopril is used alone or in
combination of other drugs for
the management of
hypertension. It is also used in
combination with other drugs in
the treatment of heart failure
after a heart attack. Also used
to treat kidney problems
caused by diabetic
nephropathy.



Allergy to other ACE
inhibitors. Aortic stenosis,
outflow obstruction,
renovascular disease.
Pregnancy and
Lactation. Caution in cases
where patients also have
Leukemia, COPD, renal or
thyroid disease.
Hypotension, dizziness, dry mouth,
itching, sleep problems, rashes,
diarrhea, constipation, hair loss, dry
irritating cough, changes in the way
things taste, upset stomach,
abdominal pain, shortness of breath,
agranulocytosis, neutropenia
Monitor blood pressure and
pulse frequently.
Monitor weight and
assesses patient frequently
for signs of fluid overload if
with concurrent diuretic
therapy.
assessments of urine
protein may be ordered.
Proteinuria and nephrotic
syndrome may occur with
therapy.
Monitor BUN, Crea and
electrolyte levels
periodically.
WBC should be monitored
prior to therapy and
periodically thereafter.
May cause false positive
result for urine acetone