Accuretic

Accuretic (Quinapril Hydrochloride) is a thiazide diuretic (water pill). It increases the amount of salt and water you lose in your urine. Hydrochlorothiazide is used to lower blood pressure and to decrease edema (swelling). Accuretic (Quinapril Hydrochloride) is in a class of drugs called angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors) and is used to lower blood pressure and to relieve the symptoms of congestive heart failure, including shortness of breath and swelling of the legs. Accuretic (Quinapril Hydrochloride) is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). Accuretic (Quinapril Hydrochloride) may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Take Accuretic (Quinapril Hydrochloride) exactly as directed by your physician. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or physician to explain them to you. Take each dose with a full glass of water. Do not stop taking Accuretic (Quinapril Hydrochloride) without first talking to your physician. If you stop taking your medication, your condition could become worse. Store Accuretic (Quinapril Hydrochloride) at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Accuretic (Quinapril Hydrochloride) and seek emergency medical attention or contact your physician immediately:

• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips,
• tongue, or face; or hives);
• fainting spells;
• unusual fatigue or abnormal bleeding or bruising;
• yellow skin or eyes;
• confusion;
• fever, chills, or a sore throat;
• little or no urine;
• irregular heartbeats; or
• increased swelling.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Accuretic (Quinapril Hydrochloride) and talk to your physician if you experience

• dizziness or lightheadedness;
• headache;
• fatigue;
• tingling or numbness in your arms, legs, hands, or feet;
• excessive urination;
• muscle weakness or cramps;
• increased hunger or thirst;
• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, decreased appetite, or changes in taste;
• sensitivity to sunlight;
• dry, tickling cough;
• anxiety or depression; or
• itching, rash, or increased sweating.

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities.

Accuretic (Quinapril Hydrochloride) may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities. Also use caution when rising from a sitting or lying position. Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may further lower blood pressure, causing increased drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking Accuretic (Quinapril Hydrochloride).

Avoid a diet high in salt. Too much salt may cause your body to retain water and may decrease the effects of Accuretic (Quinapril Hydrochloride). Ask your physician or nurse about low-salt diet alternatives.

Do not use salt substitutes or potassium supplements without first talking to your physician while taking Accuretic (Quinapril Hydrochloride). These products could cause potassium levels in your blood to become dangerously high.

Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. Accuretic (Quinapril Hydrochloride) may increase the sensitivity of your skin to sunlight. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing when exposure to the sun is unavoidable.

Heavy sweating, vomiting, diarrhea, or other causes of fluid loss may lead to very low blood pressure, dizziness, and fainting during therapy with hydrochlorothiazide and quinapril. Maintain proper fluid intake to prevent dehydration and related adverse effects.