Trandolapril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor drug that is used to treat the blood vessels and heart. It is typically prescribed for high blood pressure and to increase the chances of survival after a heart attack by reducing the chance of having congestive heart failure. Trandolapril works primarily by prompting the blood vessels to relax, which helps the heart to work more efficiently.
ACE inhibitor drugs like trandolapril work by blocking conversion of angiotensins, which are elements in the body that constrict blood vessels. By stopping this conversion process, the medication helps the blood vessels to relax and thus increase the size of the pathway for blood flow. Overall, the medication helps the body to function more efficiently by reducing strain and improving the delivery of resources to different areas of the body.
Trandolapril is taken via tablet one to two times a day. The dosage of the drug specifically affects how much it will relax the blood vessels. For this reason, it is important to take it exactly as prescribed so that the blood pressure is neither made too low nor allowed to remain too high for a particular patient.
Individuals who have had a heart attack usually take trandolapril every day for continued protection against another attack. The drug is typically taken until the end of the patient’s life. It has been clinically proven that trandolapil can increase the chances of survival from a heart attack up to 16 percent.
Trandolapril lowers both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. The former is the top number in a blood pressure reading, while the latter is the bottom number. Systolic pressure is exerted on the blood vessels while the heart is beating. Diastolic pressure happens between heartbeats.
Some health conditions may make taking trandolapril too risky, or at least require special attention and dosage instructions from a doctor. Conditions such as kidney, heart, and liver disease should be disclosed to a medical professional. Patients should report diseases related to the connective tissue as well, such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and scleroderma. Diabetes may also be problematic.
Most side effects of trandolapril are minor and either don’t require treatment at all or only need a small amount of intervention from a medical professional. Common side effects include heartburn, indigestion, and diarrhea. Patients may also experience a cough or dizziness. In rare instances, trandolapil can bring the blood pressure to an excessively low level.
