Quick answer
What is ramipril used for?
Ramipril lowers blood pressure and protects heart and kidneys — ACE inhibitor first-line for many. Dry cough common side effect — switch to ARB if troublesome. Monitor kidney function and potassium. Avoid in pregnancy.
Uses
Hypertension, heart failure post-MI, diabetic nephropathy, post-MI LV dysfunction.
Cardiovascular risk reduction.
Monitoring
U&E before and after start.
eGFR acceptable rise up to 30%.
Side effects
Cough, dizziness, hyperkalaemia.
Angioedema rare emergency.
Interactions
NSAIDs reduce effect and worsen kidneys.
Lithium levels rise.
Common questions about ramipril
- ACE cough?
- Dry tickly cough — not allergy — switch to losartan-type ARB often resolves.
- First dose dizzy?
- Drop BP — start low dose — take at bedtime first time if advised.
- With diabetes?
- Kidney protective in proteinuria — monitor creatinine rise acceptable small rise.
- Salt substitutes?
- High potassium — avoid potassium salts — hyperkalaemia risk.