Zofenopril is a hypertension medication in the Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitor class. Patients who do not respond to more conservative means to control blood pressure, like making lifestyle changes, may need to use an ACE inhibitor to adequately bring their blood pressure down and maintain it at a safe level. This medication may be one of the options in some nations, depending on availability and the specifics of the patient’s case. It is a newer-generation drug that tends to cause fewer side effects, which can be a significant advantage in some cases.
In addition to controlling blood pressure, zofenopril also appears to have cardio-protective effects. It may be recommended for the treatment of acute myocardial infarction, when a patient has had a cardiac event within the last 24 hours. This along with other medications can be used to stabilize the patient and protect the heart, limiting the risk of complications and increasing the chances of a good outcome. Rapid action to treat a myocardial infarction can make a significant difference for the patient.
One concern with zofenopril is that it can cause a very rapid drop in blood pressure. Patients may be advised to take their first dose before going to bed so that if they experience unexpected fatigue and dizziness, they will be in a safe environment. If a doctor has special concerns, the patient may need to take the dose in a medical office where nurses can monitor for an acute response. Once the patient appears to be doing well on the medication, the dosage can be slowly increased to find an effective therapeutic level.
Common zofenopril side effects can include gastrointestinal distress, dizziness, and headaches. If these become severe or do not resolve, they could be a sign of a bad drug reaction, like a dangerous drop in blood pressure. The patient can discuss the situation with a medical practitioner to determine if it is safe to continue with therapy, or if another medication should be considered. People who have reacted poorly to ACE inhibitors in the past may not be good candidates for therapy with this drug, because there is an increased risk of a bad reaction in their case.
The safety of zofenopril in older adults is not fully understood, although several clinical trials have explored the subject. In patients over 75, a doctor may not recommend the medication, as it could be risky. It is also necessary to adjust the dosage for liver and kidney impairment, and to monitor patients with such conditions closely for any signs that they are not tolerating the medication.