Sunday, November 28, 2010

I was just started on captopril and have developed a dry cough. Is this related to the medication?


Captopril is a very good drug for control of blood pressure. The medication is relatively cheap and has minimal side effects. However, one of the side effects of ACE inhibitors like captopril is a dry cough. Usually the cough starts after 1-2 weeks and disappears in 4-6 weeks. 

Unfortunately, in some cases, the cough will persist. The only way to know if the cough is related to the medication is to stop the pill and see if the cough disappears. Some patients who develop a dry cough from ACE inhibitors, like captopril will need a change of medication. 

The alternative medications for blood pressure control include the angiotensin receptor blockers, which are also a lot more expensive. If your cough persists, speak to your doctor. In the meantime do not change the dose or stop your medication until you have spoken to your doctor.

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