Drug Warning: ACE Inhibitors
Generic name: A class of drugs entitled "angiotensin converting enzyme”
Most common inhibitors: Capoten, Vasotec, Prinivil/Zestril, Lotensin, Monopril, Altace, Accupril, Aceon, Mavik, and Univasc
Purpose: Prescribed to regulate high blood pressure. They are also used after heart injuries and for heart attack prevention.
Side Effects Reported
- Common side effects of ACE inhibitors include cough, skin rashes, dizziness and lightheadedness upon rising, and a salty taste in mouth.
- ACE inhibitors are also known to increase potassium levels in the blood, so patients are warned to avoid salt substitutes, which contain potassium, and advised to regularly check their potassium levels.
- Other serious side effects include severe diarrhea and vomiting.
Industry Report
Women are advised by the FDA to speak to their doctors about taking ACE inhibitors during pregnancy. Previous studies indicate an increased risk of birth defects during second and third trimesters. Recent studies, however, indicate the risk may also be present during the first trimester.
The New England Journal of Medicine has reported that studies have indicated that ACE inhibitors may cause birth defects when taken by pregnant women in their first trimester (the first three months of pregnancy). ACE inhibitors are already associated with an increased risk of birth defects when used in the second and third trimester, but this study is the first to show a potential earlier risk. Early indications from two studies show that women who take ACE inhibitors during the first trimester of pregnancy may be approximately three times as likely to have a baby with a birth defect, when compared to mothers who were not on the medication.
Seeger Weiss is not currently pursuing lawsuits on this drug, but its drug warnings will remain on our radar.
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