Ramipril
Also known as: Altace, Vasotop, Cardase, Delix, Ramase, Triatec, Tritace
* **Consistency is key:** For this drug to be maximally effective, it must be given once daily at about the same time each day. * **Do not stop abruptly:** Do not abruptly stop or reduce therapy without your veterinarian's approval, as this could worsen your pet's heart condition or blood pressure. * **Monitor for side effects:** Contact your veterinarian if vomiting or diarrhea persist, are severe, or if your animal's condition deteriorates (e.g., extreme lethargy, weakness, or fainting).
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
What it is used for
- Treatment of arterial hypertension
- CHF
- Treatment of heart failure
How it is given
Possible side effects
- Anorexia
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Weakness
- Hypotension
- Hyperkalemia
Cautions & contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to ACE inhibitors
- Clinical cases of vascular stenosis (e.g., aortic stenosis)
- Obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Concurrent use with potassium-sparing diuretics (per UK label)
- > **Pregnancy Warning:** ACE inhibitors carry a 'black box' warning in humans for fetal injury/death during the 2nd and 3rd trimesters. Do not use in pregnant or lactating animals unless the benefits clearly outweigh the risks. * **Caution** in patients with hyponatremia, coronary or cerebrovascular insufficiency, preexisting hematologic abnormalities, or a collagen vascular disease (e.g., SLE). * May cause a reversible decrease in localization and excretion of certain renal imaging agents in patients with renal artery stenosis.
Drug interactions
- Aspirin: May potentially negate the decrease in systemic vascular resistance induced by ACE inhibitors (though low-dose aspirin did not affect enalaprilat hemodynamics in one dog study).
- Antidiabetic agents (insulin, oral agents): Possible increased risk for hypoglycemia; enhanced monitoring recommended.
- Diuretics (e.g., furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide): Potential for increased hypotensive effects.
- Diuretics, potassium sparing (e.g., spironolactone, triamterene): Increased hyperkalemic effects; enhanced monitoring of serum potassium required.
- NSAIDs: Potential for increased risk of renal dysfunction or hyperkalemia.
- Potassium supplements: Increased risk for hyperkalemia.
Frequently asked questions
What is Ramipril used for in pets?
* **Consistency is key:** For this drug to be maximally effective, it must be given once daily at about the same time each day. * **Do not stop abruptly:** Do not abruptly stop or reduce therapy without your veterinarian's approval, as this could worsen your pet's heart condition or blood pressure. * **Monitor for side effects:** Contact your veterinarian if vomiting or diarrhea persist, are severe, or if your animal's condition deteriorates (e.g., extreme lethargy, weakness, or fainting).
Is Ramipril safe for my pet?
Dosage must be set by your veterinarian for your specific pet. Never give human medication or another pet’s prescription without veterinary guidance.
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell, please consult a veterinarian.
Worried about your pet?
Peqaboo’s AI helps you track symptoms, understand lab reports, and know when to see a vet.
Get the Peqaboo app