Fosinopril sodium

Fosinopril Sodium is an angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor used in the treatment of hypertension and heart failure. It is a prodrug, meaning it is inactive in its administered form and must be metabolized in the body to its active form, fosinoprilat.

Pharmacology

Fosinopril Sodium is a phosphinic acid derivative and the only ACE inhibitor that is not a proline derivative. It is metabolized in the liver and intestines to its active metabolite, fosinoprilat, which inhibits angiotensin converting enzyme and decreases levels of angiotensin II while increasing levels of bradykinin. This results in vasodilation and a reduction in blood pressure.

Clinical Use

Fosinopril Sodium is used in the treatment of hypertension and heart failure. It may be used alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents. It is also used off-label in the treatment of diabetic nephropathy.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Fosinopril Sodium include cough, dizziness, and headache. Serious side effects may include angioedema, hyperkalemia, and kidney problems.

Contraindications

Fosinopril Sodium is contraindicated in patients with a history of angioedema related to previous treatment with an ACE inhibitor, and in patients with bilateral renal artery stenosis or with a single kidney with renal artery stenosis.

Drug Interactions

Fosinopril Sodium may interact with other medications, including potassium-sparing diuretics, lithium, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

See Also

• Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors
• Hypertension
• Heart failure