Monopril (Cont.)

Monopril Effects

A blood pressure reading consists of two numbers -- for example: 120/80. The top number is known as the systolic blood pressure and the bottom number is the diastolic blood pressure. During clinical studies in people taking Monopril, systolic blood pressure (the top number) decreased by 8 to 9 mmHg, on average. Diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number) decreased by 6 to 7 mmHg, on average. The higher the dose of Monopril, the greater the drop in blood pressure tended to be. By lowering blood pressure, Monopril can decrease the risks associated with long-term high blood pressure (see Effects of High Blood Pressure).
 
For people with congestive heart failure, the effects of Monopril on the heart and blood vessels cause a decrease in the symptoms of congestive heart failure, including shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling, and can help improve tolerance for exercise.
 

Monopril: When and How Do I Take It?

Some general considerations for when and how to take Monopril include:
 
  • Monopril comes in tablet form. It is taken once a day.
     
  • It is best to take Monopril on an empty stomach at least 1 hour before a meal. However, it may be taken with food if it upsets your stomach.
     
  • Do not break, chew, or crush the Monopril tablets.
     
  • Monopril should be taken at the same time each day to maintain an even level of the medicine in your blood.
     
  • For Monopril to work properly, you have to take it as prescribed. Monopril will not work if you stop taking it.
     

Monopril Dosing

The dose of Monopril your healthcare provider recommends will vary depending on a number of factors, including:
 
  • Your age
  • The medical condition being treated
  • Other medical conditions you may have
  • Other medications you may currently be taking.
     
As with any medication, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
 
(Click Monopril Dosage for more information about dosing guidelines for Monopril.)
 
(Monopril Continued: Page 3)

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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;