Unipril
Generic Name
Ramipril
Manufacturer
Sanofi
Country
Global, widely manufactured
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| unipril 5 mg tablet | ৳ 8.07 | ৳ 80.70 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Unipril 5 mg tablet contains Ramipril, an Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. It is used to treat high blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke, and manage heart failure and kidney problems related to diabetes.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Hypertension: Initial 2.5 mg once daily, adjusted based on response up to 10 mg daily. Heart Failure: Initial 1.25 mg once daily, titrated up to 10 mg daily. Cardiovascular Risk Reduction: 2.5 mg once daily, increased to 10 mg once daily.
Elderly
Lower initial doses (e.g., 1.25 mg once daily) may be considered, with careful titration due to potential for reduced renal function.
Renal_impairment
Initial dose 1.25 mg once daily; maximum dose 5 mg daily if creatinine clearance is < 40 ml/min/1.73m².
How to Take
Take orally once daily, with or without food. It is recommended to take it at the same time each day.
Mechanism of Action
Ramipril inhibits the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), which is responsible for converting angiotensin I to angiotensin II. Angiotensin II is a potent vasoconstrictor and stimulates aldosterone secretion. By inhibiting ACE, ramipril reduces angiotensin II levels, leading to vasodilation, decreased blood pressure, reduced sodium and water retention, and improved cardiac output.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within 1-2 hours
Excretion
Primarily renal (approximately 60%) and fecal (approximately 40%) excretion.
Half life
Ramiprilat has a prolonged effective half-life of 13-17 hours.
Absorption
Well absorbed after oral administration; peak plasma concentrations of ramiprilat are reached within 2-4 hours.
Metabolism
Prodrug, metabolized in the liver to its active metabolite ramiprilat.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- History of angioedema related to previous ACE inhibitor treatment
- Hereditary or idiopathic angioedema
- Second and third trimesters of pregnancy
- Bilateral renal artery stenosis
- Concomitant use with aliskiren in patients with diabetes mellitus or renal impairment
Drug Interactions
Lithium
Increased serum lithium concentrations and toxicity.
Aliskiren
Contraindicated in diabetic or renally impaired patients due to increased risk of hypotension, hyperkalemia, and renal impairment.
Diuretics
May lead to excessive blood pressure reduction. Dose reduction of diuretic or ramipril may be necessary.
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)
May reduce the antihypertensive effect and worsen renal function.
Potassium-sparing diuretics/Potassium supplements
Increased risk of hyperkalemia.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include severe hypotension, shock, bradycardia, electrolyte disturbances, and renal failure. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive, including intravenous fluid administration and vasopressors if severe hypotension occurs. Hemodialysis may be considered.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Contraindicated during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy due to risk of fetal injury and death. Not recommended during breastfeeding as ramipril and its metabolites are excreted in breast milk.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- History of angioedema related to previous ACE inhibitor treatment
- Hereditary or idiopathic angioedema
- Second and third trimesters of pregnancy
- Bilateral renal artery stenosis
- Concomitant use with aliskiren in patients with diabetes mellitus or renal impairment
Drug Interactions
Lithium
Increased serum lithium concentrations and toxicity.
Aliskiren
Contraindicated in diabetic or renally impaired patients due to increased risk of hypotension, hyperkalemia, and renal impairment.
Diuretics
May lead to excessive blood pressure reduction. Dose reduction of diuretic or ramipril may be necessary.
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)
May reduce the antihypertensive effect and worsen renal function.
Potassium-sparing diuretics/Potassium supplements
Increased risk of hyperkalemia.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include severe hypotension, shock, bradycardia, electrolyte disturbances, and renal failure. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive, including intravenous fluid administration and vasopressors if severe hypotension occurs. Hemodialysis may be considered.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Contraindicated during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy due to risk of fetal injury and death. Not recommended during breastfeeding as ramipril and its metabolites are excreted in breast milk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
36 months from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies, hospitals, clinics
Approval Status
Approved by major regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA, EMA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Generic available (original patent expired)
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensively studied in clinical trials like the HOPE (Heart Outcomes Prevention Evaluation) study, demonstrating significant cardiovascular benefits.
Lab Monitoring
- Blood pressure (regularly)
- Serum electrolytes (especially potassium)
- Renal function (creatinine, BUN)
- Liver function tests (periodically)
Doctor Notes
- Counsel patients on potential dry cough and the importance of reporting angioedema symptoms immediately.
- Monitor blood pressure, renal function, and serum potassium regularly, especially in elderly or renally impaired patients.
- Avoid concomitant use with NSAIDs if possible, and with aliskiren in susceptible patients.
Patient Guidelines
- Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not stop taking the medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor.
- Avoid potassium-rich foods or supplements unless advised by your doctor.
- Report any swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat immediately to your doctor.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
May cause dizziness or fatigue, especially at the start of treatment or when changing dose. Patients should be cautious when driving or operating machinery until they know how Unipril affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a healthy diet (low sodium, high fruits/vegetables).
- Engage in regular physical activity.
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake.
- Monitor blood pressure at home if advised.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
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