The most common perindopril side effects are a dry cough, fatigue, and respiratory infections. Other common perindopril side effects include an increase in the level of potassium in the blood, dizziness and elevated liver enzymes. Rare perindopril side effects include migraines and gout. Most of the common side effects of perindopril decrease as the body adjusts to the medications. Rare side effects, any signs of an allergic reaction, or any abnormal medical problems observed after taking a dose of perindopril should immediately be reported to the patient’s doctor.
Perindopril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. It is used to treat high blood pressure or hypertension and acts by dilating the blood vessels and improving the circulation of the blood. If cough and fatigue appear as side effects, they typically resolve after the patient has been on perindopril for a short time.
Often, while the body is adjusting the biochemical action of this drug, temporary abnormalities may be observed in the blood potassium level and in liver enzymes. Dizziness and vertigo may be the result of the adjustment of the body to the lower blood pressure. Respiratory infections, with symptoms similar to those experienced with a cold or flu, such as muscle aches and a raw throat, are also frequently reported. Some of the rarer perindopril side effects include migraines and problems with gout. Other reported rare side effects were strokes and kidney stones.
Unfortunately, when taking perindopril, or any other new medication, it can be difficult to decide when to persist in tolerating side effects and when it is time to try out a new medication. It is important for a patient to make a careful assessment, and even a record, of all the side effects experienced. This record can then be used to decipher if the side effects are lessening over time.
A patient should also meet with his physician shortly after starting the medication in order to evaluate any side effects and the efficacy of the perindopril. Any allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing, facial swelling or a rash requires that the patient immediately notify the prescribing physician. Rare side effects or abnormal medical conditions that appear after taking a perindopril dose also need to be discussed with the patient’s doctor.
