Accupril (Quinapril)
Compared with: Blackmores Conceive Well Gold 28 Tablets + 28 Capsules
Accupril (Quinapril) is a prescription ACE inhibitor used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. It works by relaxing blood vessels to improve blood flow and reduce the workload on the heart. Accupril helps prevent strokes,
Quinapril Hydrochloride – available in 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, and 40 mg tablet strengths.

Other Popular and Common Names
Quinapril

ACE Inhibitor Antihypertensive

Quinapril HCl
Accupril contains quinapril, an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. It blocks the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a substance that narrows blood vessels. By preventing this conversion, Accupril causes blood vessels to relax and dilate, leading to lowered blood pressure, decreased cardiac workload, and improved blood flow to vital organs such as the heart and kidneys.
Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): To reduce the risk of cardiovascular events such as stroke and heart attack.
Heart Failure: To improve survival, reduce hospitalisation, and relieve symptoms in chronic heart failure.
Left Ventricular Dysfunction: Used post-myocardial infarction to prevent progression to heart failure.
Kidney Protection: In patients with diabetes or chronic kidney disease (off-label use).
Dosage & Administration
Initial: 10–20 mg once daily
Maintenance: 20–40 mg/day in 1 or 2 divided doses
Maximum: 80 mg/day
May be used with thiazide diuretics for additive effects
Initial: 5 mg twice daily

Target: 20–40 mg/day, based on clinical response and renal function
Elderly: Start at lower doses due to increased sensitivity
Renal Impairment: Dose adjustment required
Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution
Take orally, with or without food. Dosage must be individualized based on therapeutic response and tolerability.
Prescribing Information
Form: Oral Tablets
Strengths: 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg
Route: Oral
Schedule: Prescription Only Medicine (S4 in Australia)
Category D – Contraindicated in second and third trimesters (risk of fetal toxicity)
Breastfeeding: Not recommended – may pass into breast milk
Children: Not typically recommended
Driving/Operating Machinery: May cause dizziness; caution advised
Dry, persistent cough
Headache
Dizziness or light-headedness
Fatigue
Nausea
Serious side effects (seek medical attention):
Angioedema (swelling of lips, face, throat)
Hyperkalemia (high potassium levels)
Renal impairment
Hypotension

Hepatotoxicity
Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (rare)
Monitor kidney function and electrolytes before and during treatment

Risk of hyperkalemia, especially with potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics
Avoid salt substitutes containing potassium
Discontinue if angioedema occurs
Renal artery stenosis
Liver disease
Hypotension

Aortic stenosis

Collagen vascular disease
Therapeutic Class: Antihypertensive

Pharmacologic Class: Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitor

Legal Category: Prescription Only (Rx)
Potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., spironolactone) – Increased risk of hyperkalemia

NSAIDs – May reduce antihypertensive effect and impair kidney function

Diuretics (e.g., furosemide) – May potentiate hypotension

Lithium – Increased lithium toxicity risk

Antidiabetic agents (insulin, sulfonylureas) – Enhanced hypoglycemic effect

Allopurinol or immunosuppressants – Increased risk of hematologic reactions

Clinical Evidence: Studies (e.g., HOPE and CONSENSUS trials) confirm that ACE inhibitors significantly reduce cardiovascular mortality and hospitalization in heart failure and high-risk hypertensive patients.

Comparison with Blackmores Conceive Well Gold
While Accupril (Quinapril) is a cardiovascular prescription medication used to treat hypertension and heart failure, Blackmores Conceive Well Gold is a preconception supplement for women. They serve different purposes, but managing blood pressure with medications like Accupril may be essential before conception to ensure a healthy pregnancy, especially in women with hypertension or renal conditions.

FAQs – Accupril (Quinapril)
Q1. What is Accupril used for?
A: It is used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure by relaxing blood vessels and reducing the workload on the heart.

Q2. Is it safe during pregnancy?
A: No. ACE inhibitors are contraindicated in pregnancy due to risk of fetal harm, especially in the second and third trimesters.

Q3. Can I take potassium supplements with Accupril?
A: Generally not recommended due to the risk of high potassium levels unless specifically directed by your doctor.

Q4. Does Accupril cause coughing?
A: Yes, a dry, persistent cough is a common side effect of all ACE inhibitors. Consult your doctor if it becomes bothersome.

Q5. How long does Accupril take to work?
A: Blood pressure reduction typically begins within 1 hour and peaks in 2–4 hours, but full effect may take several weeks.

Q6. Can I drink alcohol while taking Accupril?
A: Alcohol may enhance the blood pressure-lowering effects and increase dizziness or fainting. Moderation or avoidance is advised.

Q7. Can I use Accupril with other blood pressure medicines?
A: Yes, it is often used in combination with diuretics or calcium channel blockers. Always follow your doctor’s instructions.

Clinical Backing
HOPE Study (2000): Demonstrated cardiovascular benefits of ACE inhibitors in high-risk populations.

CONSENSUS Trial: Quinapril improved survival and reduced hospitalizations in heart failure patients.

Guidelines: Endorsed by the American College of Cardiology (ACC) and European Society of Cardiology (ESC) for hypertension and heart failure management.
Accupril, Quinapril, ACE Inhibitor, High Blood Pressure, Heart Failure Treatment, Prescription Medication, Antihypertensive, Cardiac Health, Renal Protection, OTC Alternatives, Dry Cough, Cardiovascular Drug, EZ Chemist