Inhibace (Cilazapril)

Description

Inhibace, also known as Cilazapril, is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor that manages high blood pressure and treats congestive heart failure (CHF). This medication helps to relax blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily, thereby lowering blood pressure and reducing the strain on the heart. Doctors often prescribe Cilazapril for patients who need help managing their high blood pressure or easing symptoms of heart failure. It's an oral tablet, making it a convenient option for at-home treatment.

Directions

Inhibace is taken as an oral tablet once daily. The initial dosage may vary, but it often starts at 0.5 or 2.5 mg once daily, depending on the condition being treated. The dosage may be adjusted based on individual response and blood pressure goals. While taking this medication, it's important to swallow the tablets whole, without chewing or crushing them. It's crucial to follow the prescribed schedule and not to adjust the dose without consulting a healthcare professional.

Ingredients

The active ingredient in Inhibace is Cilazapril.

Contraindications

Avoid taking or using this medication if any of the following apply:

• Individuals who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or not using effective birth control.
• Patients with a history of swelling (angioedema) after using similar medications.
• Those who are allergic to Cilazapril or any ingredient in the product.
• People with a family history of swelling (hereditary angioedema) or unexplained swelling.
• Patients with no urine output (anuria) or fluid buildup in the abdomen (ascites).
• Individuals with diabetes and who are taking aliskiren-containing medications.
• Patients with moderate to severe kidney problems (GFR < 60 mL/min).
• Nursing mothers.
• Those with lactose intolerance, as this medication contains lactose.
• Patients taking medications that include a neprilysin inhibitor (e.g., sacubitril/valsartan) should not use this medication within 36 hours of switching.

Cautions

• Before taking Inhibace, you may want to consult a healthcare provider about the following:
• Any existing health conditions
• Any allergies
• A list of all medications you are currently taking
• Whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding

• Inhibace can seriously harm or even cause the death of an unborn baby. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk to your doctor about switching to a safer medicine. If pregnancy is detected, stop taking Inhibace right away and call your doctor.
• Inhibace may cause your blood pressure to drop too low, especially after the first dose. This is more likely if you are dehydrated, on diuretics ("water pills"), on a low-salt diet, or have heart or kidney problems. Dizziness, fainting, or weakness could be signs—let your doctor know right away.
• Inhibace may cause or worsen kidney issues, especially in people who already have kidney disease or are on diuretics. Your doctor will check your kidney function regularly during treatment.
• This medicine can raise potassium levels in your blood, which can be dangerous. Avoid potassium supplements or salt substitutes unless your doctor tells you otherwise. Your blood levels may need to be checked regularly.
• A dry, lingering cough may occur with ACE inhibitors like Inhibace. If the cough becomes bothersome, speak to your doctor—this side effect often goes away if the medication is stopped.
• In rare cases, Inhibace can cause liver problems, including yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice). If you notice these symptoms or have unusually dark urine, stop taking the medication and contact your doctor.
• In rare cases, Inhibace may reduce white blood cells, making it harder to fight infections. If you experience fever, sore throat, or other signs of illness, speak with your healthcare provider.
• Some people may feel tired or lightheaded, especially when starting treatment. Be careful when driving or operating machinery until you know how Inhibace affects you.
• Inhibace can cause severe reactions in people undergoing dialysis with certain filters, receiving LDL apheresis (a cholesterol-lowering treatment), or allergy desensitization therapy. Your doctor may adjust your treatment plan accordingly.

• Inhibace may pass into breast milk. It should not be used while breastfeeding.
• Inhibace is not recommended for children; safety and effectiveness have not been established.
• Older adults may be more sensitive to side effects. Lower starting doses are often recommended.
• Inhibace contains lactose and should not be used by people with rare hereditary lactose metabolism disorders.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Inhibace include headache, dizziness, cough, fatigue, and nausea. These were more frequent in patients with heart failure than those treated for high blood pressure. Cough is a well-known side effect of ACE inhibitors and may occur more often in women and non-smokers. While most side effects are mild, some patients may require dose reduction or stopping the medication if symptoms persist.

In rare cases, Inhibace can cause low blood pressure, kidney problems, or high potassium levels—especially in people with pre-existing conditions or those taking certain diuretics. Serious but uncommon effects include angioedema (swelling of the face or throat), heart attack, stroke, or allergic skin reactions. Some people may experience changes in mood, libido, or coordination, and respiratory symptoms like shortness of breath or bronchitis. Discontinuation due to side effects was more common in heart failure patients than those with high blood pressure.

References

1. Inhibace (Cilazapril) Product Monograph. Milton, ON: MSD Inc.; 2020.
2. Inhibace (Cilazapril) Drug Label Information. Milton, ON: MSD Inc.; 2020.

About Dr. Gerardo Sison (Page Author)

An honors graduate of the University of Florida, Dr. Sison started his pharmacy career in a community setting, extending his services to hospitals and clinics over time. He has also worked in medication therapy management, advising patients on proper medication use for their chronic health conditions. Read More....