Discharge Instructions: Taking ACE Inhibitors

Your doctor prescribed an ACE inhibitor for you. This medication helps open blood vessels so that your blood flows more easily. ACE inhibitors are used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and heart failure, and help improve outcomes following a heart attack. ACE inhibitors also slow the progression of kidney disease in people with diabetes. An ACE inhibitor may give you more energy, help you stay out of the hospital, and even help you live longer.

Take your medication at the same time each day.

 Home Care

• Follow the fact sheet that came with your medication. It tells you when and how to take your medication. Ask for a sheet if you didn’t get one.

• Take this medication at the same time each day.

• Take this medication on an empty stomach 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals.

• Don’t change the dose or stop taking your medication unless your doctor tells you to.

• Avoid potassium supplements, salt substitutes with potassium (No Salt, Morton Salt Substitute, Mrs. Dash, and others), or large amounts of high-potassium foods (such as bananas, potatoes, broccoli, milk). High blood potassium levels can be dangerous when you are taking an ACE inhibitor.

• Have your potassium levels checked periodically while you are taking ACE inhibitors.

Possible Side Effects

Tell your doctor if you have any of these side effects. Don’t stop taking the medication unless your doctor tells you to. Mild side effects include the following:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Dry cough

• Nausea

• Headache

• Tiredness