Quinaprilat

Quinaprilat is the active metabolite of the prodrug quinapril, a medication used to treat hypertension and congestive heart failure. It is a potent ACE inhibitor that works by relaxing blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily, thereby lowering blood pressure and reducing the strain on the heart.

Pharmacology

Quinaprilat inhibits the ACE (also known as kininase II), which is an enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of angiotensin I to the potent vasoconstrictor angiotensin II. By inhibiting ACE, quinaprilat decreases the levels of angiotensin II, leading to vasodilation and a reduction in the secretion of aldosterone. This results in a decrease in sodium and water reabsorption, leading to a decrease in blood volume and a reduction in blood pressure.

Clinical Use

Quinaprilat is used in the treatment of hypertension and congestive heart failure. It is usually administered orally in the form of its prodrug, quinapril, which is then metabolized in the liver to the active form, quinaprilat. The medication is typically taken once or twice daily, with or without food.

Side Effects

Common side effects of quinaprilat include cough, dizziness, and headache. Less common side effects can include chest pain, shortness of breath, and swelling of the hands or feet. Severe side effects can include kidney problems, serious allergic reactions, and a condition known as angioedema, which is characterized by swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

See Also

• ACE inhibitors
• Hypertension
• Congestive heart failure

External Links

• Quinapril Hydrochloride on Drugs.com
• Quinapril on MedicineNet.com

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  Quinaprilat