acupil 5mg tablet - Quinapril (5mg) medicine

Acupil 5mg Tablet: Complete Guide To Uses, Side Effects, And Safety

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🏭 Pfizer Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 28, 2026
⚠️ Nephrotoxicity Risk 🤰 Pregnancy Category Not established from the available information. This medicine should not be used during pregnancy as it can cause harm to the developing fetus. Consult your doctor immediately if you become pregnant. 📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for hypertension and heart failure.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 28, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026

When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY

  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • Severe dizziness or fainting
  • Decreased urine output or swelling in legs
  • Irregular heartbeat or muscle weakness
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes
  • Severe abdominal pain with nausea or vomiting

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is acupil 5mg tablet used for?

This medicine is an ACE inhibitor used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. It works by relaxing blood vessels to improve blood flow and reduce the heart's workload.

  • Generic Name: Quinapril
  • Manufacturer: Pfizer Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 acupil 5mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा मुख्य रूप से उच्च रक्तचाप (हाइपरटेंशन) और हृदय विफलता के इलाज के लिए इस्तेमाल की जाती है। यह रक्त वाहिकाओं को आराम देकर रक्तचाप को कम करती है और हृदय पर दबाव कम करती है। यह मधुमेह रोगियों में गुर्दे की सुरक्षा में भी मदद कर सकती है।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में चक्कर आना, सूखी खांसी, थकान, सिरदर्द और पेट की हल्की परेशानी शामिल हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन चेहरे, होंठ, जीभ या गले में सूजन, सांस लेने में कठिनाई, या पेशाब में कमी हो सकती है। ऐसे लक्षण दिखने पर तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को लेने से पहले अपने डॉक्टर को गर्भावस्था, स्तनपान, गुर्दे या यकृत की बीमारी के बारे में बताएं। पोटैशियम सप्लीमेंट या नमक के विकल्प बिना डॉक्टर की सलाह के न लें। नियमित रूप से रक्तचाप, गुर्दे की कार्यप्रणाली और पोटैशियम की जांच कराएं। दवा अचानक बंद न करें। खुराक छूट जाने पर याद आते ही ले लें, लेकिन अगली खुराक के करीब हो तो छोड़ दें।

💡 Did You Know? India has the highest number of USFDA-compliant plants outside the USA.

💊 acupil 5mg tablet Uses & Benefits

[{"condition":"Hypertension","description":"This medicine is used to lower high blood pressure, reducing the risk of strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Heart failure","description":"It is used to improve survival and reduce hospitalizations in patients with heart failure, often in combination with other medicines.","evidence":"Well-established"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Diabetic nephropathy","description":"Sometimes prescribed to protect kidney function in people with diabetes and high blood pressure.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Post-myocardial infarction","description":"May be used after a heart attack to improve heart function and reduce the risk of future cardiovascular events.","evidence":"Moderate"}]

Primary treatment for: Hypertension

Also treats: Heart failure, Diabetic nephropathy, Post-myocardial infarction

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Quinapril
Brand Nameartisol 10mg tablet
ManufacturerPfizer Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassCARDIAC
Action ClassAngiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep away from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.
Shelf LifeNot established from the available information. Check the expiry date on the package.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels.
2
Monitor your blood pressure regularly and keep a record to share with your doctor.
3
Avoid potassium supplements and salt substitutes unless approved by your doctor.
4
If you develop a persistent dry cough, consult your doctor; do not stop the medicine on your own.
5
Stay hydrated, especially in hot weather or during exercise, to prevent low blood pressure.
6
Inform your doctor if you experience swelling of the face, lips, or tongue immediately.
7
Do not use NSAIDs like ibuprofen regularly without consulting your doctor.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
High blood pressure
This medicine is commonly prescribed for this.
Likely Use
✅
Heart failure
This medicine is used to treat heart failure.
Likely Use
❌
Fever
This medicine is not a fever reducer.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionQuinapril is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. The absorption is not significantly affected by food, but taking it with food may reduce the risk of stomach upset. The bioavailability of quinapril is approximately 60%.
DistributionQuinapril and its active metabolite, quinaprilat, are distributed widely in the body, but they do not cross the blood-brain barrier significantly. The volume of distribution is not well established from the available information.
Protein BindingQuinaprilat, the active metabolite, is highly protein-bound, primarily to albumin and other plasma proteins. The protein binding is approximately 97%.
MetabolismQuinapril is extensively metabolized in the liver to its active metabolite, quinaprilat, and other inactive metabolites. The conversion to quinaprilat is rapid and occurs via hydrolysis.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of quinaprilat is approximately 2 hours, but the effective half-life for blood pressure reduction is longer, allowing for once-daily dosing.
ExcretionQuinapril and its metabolites are primarily excreted through the kidneys. About 50-60% of an oral dose is recovered in the urine, and the remainder is excreted in the feces.
BioavailabilityThe oral bioavailability of quinapril is approximately 60%.
Onset of ActionThe onset of blood pressure lowering effect is usually within 1 hour after oral administration, with peak effect occurring within 2-4 hours.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations of quinaprilat are reached approximately 2 hours after oral administration.
Duration of ActionThe blood pressure lowering effect lasts for about 24 hours, allowing for once-daily dosing.

How It Works

This medicine works by inhibiting the angiotensin-converting enzyme, which is responsible for converting angiotensin I to angiotensin II. Angiotensin II is a powerful vasoconstrictor that narrows blood vessels and stimulates the release of aldosterone, a hormone that causes the body to retain sodium and water. By blocking this enzyme, this medicine reduces the levels of angiotensin II, leading to relaxation of blood vessels, decreased blood pressure, and reduced workload on the heart. It also decreases aldosterone secretion, which helps to lower sodium and water retention and may slightly increase potassium levels.

Mechanism Steps

1
Inhibition of angiotensin-converting enzyme: This medicine binds to and inhibits the angiotensin-converting enzyme, preventing the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II.
2
Reduction in angiotensin II levels: With less angiotensin II, blood vessels relax and widen, leading to lower blood pressure.
3
Decreased aldosterone secretion: Lower angiotensin II levels reduce aldosterone release, which decreases sodium and water retention and increases potassium levels.
4
Reduced cardiac workload: The combined effects reduce both preload and afterload on the heart, improving its efficiency and reducing oxygen demand.

💡 How to Take acupil 5mg tablet

Strength: This medicine is available as an immediate-release oral tablet containing 5 mg of quinapril.

1Take this medicine by mouth with or without food.
2Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
3If it upsets your stomach, take it with a meal.
4Take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels.
5Do not crush or chew the tablet unless your doctor advises.
6Follow your doctor's instructions exactly and do not change the dose without consulting.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual starting dose of this medicine for hypertension is 10 mg or 20 mg once daily, but your doctor may start with 5 mg if you are also taking a diuretic or have other conditions. The dose may be increased gradually based on your blood pressure response. For heart failure, the starting dose is typically 5 mg twice daily, increased as tolerated. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to the blood pressure-lowering effects of this medicine. Start with a lower dose and monitor closely for dizziness or falls. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician.
Renal ImpairmentIn patients with kidney impairment, the dose may need to be reduced. For moderate kidney impairment, a lower starting dose is recommended. For severe impairment, consult a doctor for appropriate dosing. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician.
Hepatic ImpairmentIn patients with liver impairment, the dose may need to be adjusted. Consult your doctor for appropriate dosing. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician.
Maximum Daily DoseThe maximum recommended daily dose is 80 mg, but doses above 40 mg have not been shown to provide additional benefit. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician.

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with or without food
Food does not significantly affect absorption but may reduce stomach upset.
High-potassium foods
Moderate intake
This medicine can increase potassium levels; excessive intake may lead to hyperkalemia.
Salt substitutes
Avoid
Many contain potassium, which can increase the risk of high potassium levels.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of acupil 5mg tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Dizziness (Common (5-10%))
Get up slowly from sitting or lying position. If dizziness persists, consult your doctor.
Dry cough (Common (5-10%))
If the cough becomes bothersome, talk to your doctor. Do not stop the medicine on your own.
Headache (Common (5-10%))
Usually resolves on its own. If severe or persistent, consult your doctor.
Fatigue (Common (5-10%))
Ensure adequate rest. If fatigue interferes with daily activities, consult your doctor.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Angioedema (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing.
Severe hypotension (Rare (<0.1%))
If you feel faint or have very low blood pressure, lie down and contact your doctor immediately.
Kidney failure (Rare (<0.1%))
Report decreased urine output or swelling in legs to your doctor promptly.
Hyperkalemia (Uncommon (0.1-1%))
Regular blood tests are needed. Report muscle weakness or irregular heartbeat to your doctor.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Neutropenia
Report any signs of infection such as fever or sore throat to your doctor immediately.
Hepatic failure
Seek medical attention if you notice yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Potassium supplements Major
Potassium-sparing diuretics Major
NSAIDs Major
Lithium Major
Diuretics Moderate
Other antihypertensives Moderate
Antacids Minor

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Potassium supplements
  • Potassium-sparing diuretics
  • NSAIDs
  • Lithium

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Diuretics
  • Other antihypertensives

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol may enhance the blood pressure-lowering effect of this medicine and can cause dizziness or fainting. It is advisable to limit or avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.

🔎 Check Your Other Medicines

Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.

🛡️ Safety & Warnings

🚫 Contraindications

["History of angioedema related to ACE inhibitors","Hereditary or idiopathic angioedema","Pregnancy","Concomitant use with aliskiren in patients with diabetes","Severe kidney impairment (consult doctor)"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["Use with caution in patients with kidney disease or those on dialysis.","May cause low blood pressure, especially after the first dose or when dehydrated.","Avoid use with potassium supplements or salt substitutes.","May cause a persistent dry cough; consult doctor if it becomes bothersome.","Do not use during pregnancy as it can harm the fetus.","Use with caution in patients with liver disease.","May increase the risk of infections due to low white blood cell count."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Not established from the available information. It is not known whether this medicine passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose of this medicine can cause severe low blood pressure, dizziness, and fainting. If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is supportive and may include intravenous fluids and medications to raise blood pressure.

⏰ Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Before taking this medicine, inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Do not use this medicine if you have a history of angioedema or if you have diabetes and are taking aliskiren. Avoid taking potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium without your doctor's approval, as this medicine can increase potassium levels in the blood. Drink plenty of water and maintain a healthy diet low in salt. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, kidney function, and potassium levels is important while you are on this medicine. Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this can worsen your condition. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it is almost time for your next dose. Never double the dose.

👴 Special Considerations for Elderly

💡 For Patients Above 65

Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the blood pressure-lowering effects of this medicine. Start with a lower dose and monitor for dizziness or falls. Regular monitoring of kidney function and potassium levels is important.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

This medicine is not recommended during pregnancy as it can harm the fetus. If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor to switch to a safer alternative before conception.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine. It may need to be temporarily stopped before surgery to prevent low blood pressure during the procedure. Follow your doctor's instructions.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine. It may cause dry mouth or affect blood pressure during dental procedures. Your dentist may take precautions.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a healthy weight to help control blood pressure.
🥗
Follow a low-sodium diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
😴
Engage in regular physical activity like walking or swimming.
💧
Limit alcohol intake and avoid smoking.
🧘
Manage stress through relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation.
🌞
Get adequate sleep to support heart health.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

This medicine may cause dizziness, especially when you first start taking it or when the dose is increased. Avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting until you know how the medicine affects you. Stay hydrated during exercise.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Reduce salt intake to help lower blood pressure.
Eat potassium-rich foods like bananas, oranges, and spinach in moderation.
Avoid high-fat and processed foods.
Include whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
Limit caffeine and alcohol.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause dizziness or fatigue, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid driving until you know how it affects you. Most people can continue their normal activities once they adjust to the medicine.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. Stopping suddenly can cause your blood pressure to rise and increase the risk of heart attack or stroke. If you experience serious side effects, contact your doctor immediately for advice.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine is generally safe and effective for managing high blood pressure and heart failure. Regular monitoring of kidney function, potassium levels, and blood pressure is important. In some patients, a persistent dry cough may occur, which may require switching to another medicine. Long-term use has been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Lifestyle modifications

Diet, exercise, and weight loss can help lower blood pressure and complement medicine.

Evidence: Well-established
Other antihypertensive classes

If ACE inhibitors are not tolerated, alternatives like ARBs, calcium channel blockers, or diuretics may be used.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

No specific vaccine interactions are known. However, consult your doctor before receiving any vaccine while on this medicine.

📦 Storage Guide

✅ DO

Store at room temperature (15-30°C)

❌ DON'T

Do not refrigerate unless specified

✅ DO

Keep in original container

❌ DON'T

Do not transfer to unmarked containers

✅ DO

Keep away from direct sunlight

❌ DON'T

Do not store in bathroom cabinet

✈️ Traveling with This Medicine

Carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Keep it in your carry-on luggage to avoid loss. Store at room temperature and protect from moisture. If traveling across time zones, consult your doctor about adjusting the timing of your doses. Check local customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 55-year-old man with newly diagnosed high blood pressure
He was prescribed this medicine 5 mg once daily. After a week, he noticed mild dizziness when standing up quickly. His doctor advised him to get up slowly and to drink plenty of water. His blood pressure gradually improved, and the dizziness subsided.
💡 Lesson: Dizziness is common when starting this medicine. Simple measures like rising slowly and staying hydrated can help.
👤 A 62-year-old woman with heart failure
She was started on this medicine 5 mg twice daily along with other heart medicines. She experienced a dry cough that bothered her at night. Her doctor switched her to a different class of medicine, and the cough resolved.
💡 Lesson: A dry cough is a known side effect of ACE inhibitors. If it becomes troublesome, your doctor can adjust your treatment.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine starts lowering blood pressure within 1-2 hours, but the full effect may take 2-4 weeks of regular use.

Q: Can I take this medicine with food?

A: Yes, you can take it with or without food. If it upsets your stomach, take it with a meal.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

A: Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

Q: Is this medicine safe during pregnancy?

A: No, this medicine is not safe during pregnancy as it can harm the developing baby. Consult your doctor immediately if you become pregnant.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for acupil 5mg tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine can be stopped once blood pressure is normal.
    Fact: High blood pressure often has no symptoms, and stopping the medicine can cause it to rise again. Continue as prescribed.
  • Myth: This medicine causes kidney damage in everyone.
    Fact: This medicine can affect kidney function in some people, but it is often used to protect kidneys in diabetes. Regular monitoring is key.
  • Myth: A dry cough means you are allergic to this medicine.
    Fact: A dry cough is a common side effect of ACE inhibitors, not necessarily an allergy. Consult your doctor if it bothers you.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Quinapril 5 mg tablet

Brand Alternatives

  • Acupil 5mg tablet

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Quinapril","class":"ACE inhibitor","half_life":"2 hours","common_side_effects":"Dry cough, dizziness"},{"medicine":"Ramipril","class":"ACE inhibitor","half_life":"13-17 hours","common_side_effects":"Dry cough, dizziness"},{"medicine":"Lisinopril","class":"ACE inhibitor","half_life":"12 hours","common_side_effects":"Dry cough, dizziness"}]

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