Perindopril erbumine is a medication prescribed to help lower high blood pressure, or hypertension. A doctor may also sometimes prescribe it to patients with stable coronary artery disease to help prevent heart attacks. Perindopril erbumine is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor that works by preventing the tightening of blood vessels by blocking the production of certain chemicals in the body. This allows the blood to flow more freely and ward off complications of hypertension, such as heart attacks and strokes.
Adults will typically be prescribed a total daily dosage not to exceed 16 milligrams (mg), which may be taken as one to two doses each day. The doctor may recommend starting with a lower dosage, to be gradually increased if needed. Perindopril erbumine is not intended to replace a healthy diet and regular exercise, which will also lower high blood pressure.
Certain precautions should be taken while using perindopril erbumine for high blood pressure. Patients must avoid taking salt substitutes that contain potassium or any type of potassium supplement, including multivitamins with potassium. This drug has the potential to excessively raise potassium levels, which can cause symptoms like a slowed heartbeat and muscle weakness. It may also increase the risk for dehydration, which can cause lightheadedness and dizziness. Patients should consume plenty of fluids and avoid strenuous exercise in hot weather.
Some side effects may occur while using perindopril erbumine, which should be reported to the prescribing physician if they become severe. Decreased sexual ability has been reported. Patients may experience dry cough, fatigue, and a headache. These side effects should dissipate as the body adjusts to the medicine.
More serious side effects require immediate medical care. Patients may rarely experience fainting, an irregular heartbeat, and muscle cramps. Life-threatening liver damage is uncommon, but requires emergency medical intervention. This complication may present with jaundice, dark urine, and severe stomach pain, as well as persistent nausea and vomiting. Other serious side effects can include chest pain, numbness or tingling, and swelling of the feet or hands.
Before using perindopril erbumine, patients must disclose their other medical conditions. Women who are pregnant should avoid its use, because it can cause birth defects. As of 2011, it is unknown whether it may pass into breast milk. This drug may be contraindicated for use by those who have liver or kidney disease, a mineral or salt imbalance, or diabetes.
Perindopril erbumine may interact with other drugs. Patients must disclose all other medications and supplements they take, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), diuretics, and gold injections. It may also interact with lithium, drugs that affect the bone marrow, and medicines that contain trimethoprim.