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Coversyl
Brand Names: Coversyl, Aceon
Generic Name: Perindopril
Manufacturer: Servier
Indications
Coversyl is indicated for treatment of high blood pressure.
It can be taken alone or in combination with thiazide diuretics that help rid the body of excess water. Coversyl belongs to a family of drugs called angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It works by preventing a chemical in your blood called angiotensin I from converting into a more potent form that increases salt and water retention in your body. Coversyl also improves the flow of blood through the circulatory system.
Important fact about Coversyl
You must take Coversyl regularly for it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may be several weeks before you get the full benefit of the drug; and you must continue taking it even if you are feeling well. Coversyl does not cure blood pressure; it merely keeps it under control.
How should you take Coversyl?
Coversyl can be taken with or without food.--If you miss a dose...Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time
Coversyl Side Effects
If any Coversyl side effects develop, they are usually mild and are likely to disappear as therapy continues. However, if any do appear, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Coversyl.
More common Coversyl side effects may include:
Cough, dizziness, headache, leg pain, light-headedness, nasal inflammation, sore throat, upper respiratory infection, weakness
Rare Coversyl side effects may include:
Angioedema (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, throat, arms, or legs, and difficulty swallowing), arm pain, fever, heart palpitations, indigestion, muscle tension, purple spots on the skin, sinusitis, viral infection
Special warnings about Coversyl
If you develop signs of an allergic reaction (swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat; swollen arms and legs; difficulty swallowing or breathing) stop taking Coversyl and contact your doctor immediately. You may need emergency treatment.Coversyl occasionally makes people dizzy, light-headed or faint, especially during the first few days of therapy. If these symptoms occur, contact your doctor. Do not drive, operate dangerous machinery, or participate in any hazardous activity that requires full mental alertness until you know how Coversyl affects you. If you actually faint, stop taking the drug and call your doctor immediately.Coversyl can cause excessively low blood pressure, especially if your body is short of fluid. This problem is more likely if you are also taking a diuretic or suffer from diarrhea, vomiting, or excessive sweating. Call your doctor if you develop such signs of fluid depletion as dry mouth, weakness or fatigue, unusual thirst, restlessness or confusion, or reduced urination.In rare instances, Coversyl can damage the kidneys. When prescribing Coversyl, your doctor will perform a complete assessment of your kidney function and will continue to monitor it. If you have kidney disease, the drug should be used with caution. The doctor will also take extra care if you have congestive heart failure or circulatory problems.Coversyl occasionally causes an unwanted increase in the body's potassium level. Do not use potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium without your doctor's okay.Contact your doctor promptly if you develop any sign of infection, such as a sore throat or fever. Also be sure to let the doctor know if you develop a persistent, dry cough. It could be a side effect that will disappear if the doctor switches you to another medication.There have been rare cases of liver damage linked to Coversyl. If you develop signs of liver problems such as yellowish skin and eyes, stop taking the medication and contact your doctor.
If you are receiving bee or wasp venom to prevent an allergic reaction to stings, taking Coversyl at the same time may cause a severe allergic reaction. Make sure the allergist knows you are taking Coversyl. In fact, before any type of procedure, notify your doctor or dentist that you are taking this drug.
Recommended Coversyl dosage
ADULTS
The usual starting dosage is 4 milligrams daily, taken as a single dose or divided into two smaller doses. Your doctor may increase the dosage until your blood pressure is under control, up to a maximum of 16 milligrams per day. A dose of 4 to 8 milligrams a day is usually sufficient.If you have been taking a diuretic, your doctor may tell you to stop taking it 2 or 3 days before you start taking Coversyl. If you need to continue the diuretic without interruption, the doctor may start you on Coversyl at a reduced dose of 2 to 4 milligrams daily, then gradually increase the dosage if necessary.If your blood pressure is not adequately controlled with Coversyl alone, the doctor may add a diuretic to your regimen.Coversyl has not been tested in people with severe kidney disease. If you have mild kidney problems, the usual starting dosage is 2 milligrams or less per day. The dosage may be increased gradually to not more than 8 milligrams per day.
CHILDREN
Coversyl has not been tested in children.
OLDER ADULTS
Higher doses (above 8 milligrams a day) are prescribed for older adults only with extra caution.
Coversyl Overdosage
The most likely warning signs of an Coversyl overdose are symptoms of excessively low blood pressure, including dizziness and light-headedness. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
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