Proper Use

Drug information provided by: Merative, Micromedex®

In addition to the use of this medicine, treatment for your high blood pressure may include weight control and changes in the types of foods you eat, especially foods high in sodium (salt). Your doctor will tell you which of these are most important for you. You should check with your doctor before changing your diet.

Many patients who have high blood pressure will not notice any signs of the problem. In fact, many may feel normal. It is very important that you take your medicine exactly as directed and that you keep your appointments with your doctor even if you feel well.

Remember that this medicine will not cure your high blood pressure but it does help control it. Therefore, you must continue to take it as directed if you expect to lower your blood pressure and keep it down. You may have to take high blood pressure medicine for the rest of your life. If high blood pressure is not treated, it can cause serious problems such as heart failure, blood vessel disease, stroke, or kidney disease.

Measure the oral liquid correctly using the marked measuring spoon that comes with the package. Rinse the dosing spoon with water after each use.

If your child cannot swallow the tablets, an oral liquid may be given. Shake the oral liquid well just before each use. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about this.

Dosing

The dose of this medicine will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label. The following information includes only the average doses of this medicine. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The amount of medicine that you take depends on the strength of the medicine. Also, the number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and the length of time you take the medicine depend on the medical problem for which you are using the medicine.

  • For oral dosage forms (solution or tablets):
    • For high blood pressure:
      • Adults—At first, 10 milligrams (mg) once a day. Your doctor may increase your dose as needed. However, the dose is usually not more than 40 mg per day.
      • Children 6 years of age and older—Dose is based on body weight and must be determined by your doctor. The starting dose is usually 0.07 mg per kilogram (kg) of body weight per day. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed. However, the dose is usually not more than 0.61 mg per kg of body weight or 40 mg per day.
      • Children younger than 6 years of age—Use is not recommended.
    • For heart failure:
      • Adults—At first, 5 milligrams (mg) once a day. Your doctor may increase your dose as needed. However, the dose is usually not more than 40 mg per day.
      • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.
    • For immediate treatment after a heart attack:
      • Adults—At first, 5 milligrams (mg), followed by 5 mg after 24 hours, followed by 10 mg after 48 hours, and then 10 mg once a day.
      • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Storage

Keep out of the reach of children.

Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.

Ask your healthcare professional how you should dispose of any medicine you do not use.

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep from freezing.

Store the mixed oral liquid at or below room temperature for up to 4 weeks.

Portions of this document last updated: April 01, 2024

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