Indications 

Monopril HCTZ is a prescribed medication indicated for the management of hypertension (high blood pressure). 

Monopril HCTZ comprises two active components: fosinopril, an ACE inhibitor, and hydrochlorothiazide, a diuretic.  

Fosinopril works by easing blood vessel tension to improve blood flow. On the other hand, hydrochlorothiazide prompts the body to eliminate excess salt and water, potentially leading to increased urine production while aiding in relaxing blood vessels to facilitate smoother blood circulation. 

Uses and Dosage 

Carefully read the accompanying medication guide and patient information leaflet of Monopril HCTZ before the first use and with each prescription refill. Seek guidance from your doctor or pharmacist for any inquiries or additional information. 

The appropriate dosage of Monopril HCTZ is determined based on medical conditions and response to the treatment. 

Typically, this medication is taken once a day as prescribed by the doctor without regard to food intake. Taking it at least 4 hours before bedtime is recommended to minimize nocturnal urination. 

For optimal results, consistently take Monopril HCTZ at the same times daily, exactly as directed. Do not modify the prescribed dosage, frequency, or duration of use without consulting your doctor for approval. 

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as recalled. Skip the missed dose if your next scheduled dose is approaching. Avoid taking additional medicine to compensate for the missed dose. 

Continue taking this medication even if you are feeling well, as individuals with high blood pressure often do not experience symptoms. 

Inform your doctor if there is no improvement, or your condition worsens, such as persistent or elevated blood pressure readings. 

Side Effects 

Common Side Effects 

• Headache 
• Dizziness 
• Cough 
• Tired feeling 

Tell your doctor if any of these common side effects persist or become more severe. 

Serious Side Effects 

• Light-headed feeling resembling a tendency to faint 
• Pale skin 
• Easy bruising or bleeding 
• Fever, swollen gums, painful mouth sores, pain when swallowing, or cold/flu symptoms 
• High potassium symptoms: 
  • Nausea 
  • Slow or unusual heart rate 
  • Weakness 
  • Loss of movement 
• Low potassium symptoms: 
  • Leg cramps 
  • Constipation 
  • Irregular heartbeats 
  • Chest fluttering 
  • Increased thirst or urination 
  • Numbness or tingling 
  • Muscle weakness 
  • Limp feeling 
• Indication of low levels of sodium: 
  • Headache 
  • Confusion 
  • Slurred speech 
  • Severe weakness 
  • Vomiting 
  • Loss of coordination 
  • Feeling unsteady 
• Signs of a severe skin reaction: 
  • Fever 
  • Sore throat 
  • Facial or tongue swelling 
  • Burning in the eyes 
  • Skin pain followed by a red or purple skin rash that spreads, particularly in the face or upper body, causing blistering and peeling 

Promptly contact your doctor if you experience any serious side effects. 

Allergic Reactions 

Although uncommon, Monopril HCTZ may lead to severe allergic reactions. If symptoms indicative of a serious allergic reaction arises, promptly seek medical attention. Symptoms may include: 

• Hives 
• Severe stomach pain 
• Difficulty in breathing 
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat  

This list does not include all potential side effects of Monopril HCTZ. If you observe any effects that are not listed here, inform your doctor. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Monopril HCTZ, inform your doctor if you have known allergies, especially to fosinopril, hydrochlorothiazide, other ACE inhibitors (e.g., captopril, lisinopril), other thiazides (e.g., chlorothiazide), or any inactive ingredients in Monopril HCTZ tablet. 

Inform your doctor about your medical background before taking Monopril HCTZ, particularly if you have a history of: 

• Allergic reactions involving swelling of the face/lips/tongue/throat (angioedema) 
• Liver or kidney disease 
• Lupus 
• Gout 
• Untreated salt imbalances (e.g., high calcium, high or low potassium, low magnesium) 
• Dehydration 
• Blood filtering procedures (e.g., LDL apheresis, dialysis) 
• Skin cancer 

Monopril HCTZ may interact with certain products, including: 

• Aliskiren 
• Dofetilide 
• Immunosuppressive drugs (e.g., everolimus, sirolimus) 
• Lithium 
• Potassium-elevating medications (e.g., ARBs like losartan/valsartan, Drospirenone-containing birth control pills) 
• Gold injections  
• Sacubitril 

To lower the risk of drug interaction with Monopril HCTZ, inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescriptions and nonprescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. 

Antacids with aluminum or magnesium can reduce fosinopril absorption. If using an antacid containing these components, ensure a minimum 2-hour interval before or after taking Monopril HCTZ. 

When concurrently using cholesterol-lowering medications like bile acid-binding resins (e.g., cholestyramine or colestipol), take Monopril HCTZ either at least 4 hours before or 4 to 6 hours after these drugs. 

Contact your doctor if you experience persistent vomiting, diarrhea, or increased sweating, as dehydration is possible during Monopril HCTZ use. Dehydration can result in low blood pressure, electrolyte imbalances, or kidney failure. 

Prevent overheating or dehydration during physical activity and in high temperatures. Adhere to your doctor’s guidance regarding the appropriate type and quantity of fluids to consume, as excessive fluid intake can pose risks similar to inadequate hydration in certain situations. 

During treatment with Monopril HCTZ, refrain from rapid transitions from sitting or lying down to standing, as it may induce dizziness. Rise gradually, stabilizing yourself to minimize the risk of a fall. 

Monopril HCTZ can heighten sun sensitivity, potentially increasing the risk of skin cancer, particularly with prolonged use. Restrict sun exposure, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, and use sunscreen and protective clothing outdoors. Promptly inform your doctor of sunburn, skin blisters/redness, or any new or altered moles/skin lesions. 

The use of Monopril HCTZ by pregnant women should be avoided. If you become pregnant, discontinue this medication, and promptly inform your doctor, as fosinopril may pose a risk of injury or fatality to the fetus if taken during the second or third trimester. 

Hydrochlorothiazide and fosinopril can be excreted in breast milk, potentially harming a nursing baby. Refrain from breastfeeding while taking Monopril HCTZ.