Uses of Perindopril

Perindopril is used to treat hypertension and heart failure in adults.

Therapeutic Category

Perindopril: Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitors 

How Perindopril works

Perindopril works by inhibiting the activity of an enzyme called angiotensin converting enzyme (an enzyme which is responsible for causing constriction of blood vessels), resulting in easy flow of blood around the body.

Common side effects of Perindopril

• Low blood pressure
• Dizziness
• Feeling of spinning (vertigo)
• Tingling or prickling sensation
• Vision disturbances
• Tinnitus (ringing sensation in the ears)
• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Gastrointestinal disorders (nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, altered taste sensation or difficulty of digestion, diarrhoea, constipation)
• Allergic reactions like skin rashes, itching
• Muscle cramps
• Feeling of weakness
• Headache 

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor if you experience:

• In case of accidental overdose or poisoning
• Angioedema (painless swelling seen in face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat)
• Severe dizziness or sudden temporary loss of consciousness caused by low blood pressure
• Irregular heartbeat or fast heartbeat, chest pain or heart attack
• Signs of stroke like difficulty in walking, speaking, and understanding
• Sudden wheezing, tightness in chest, difficulty in breathing (bronchospasm)
• Inflammation of pancreas which may cause severe abdominal and back pain
• Signs of hepatitis like jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes)
• Skin rash with red itchy patches on your face, arms or legs (erythema multiforme)

Health Tips for Perindopril

• Avoid consumption of alcohol while taking Perindopril as it can increase the risk of low blood pressure, dizziness and lightheadedness
• Regular exercise, walking helps. Also, stick to simple meals. Eat light, bland foods and avoid fried, oily, or sweet foods. Avoid carbonated drinks
• Perindopril is not recommended for use in pregnant and breast feeding women unless necessary. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor