Side Effects Of Fosinopril Sodium

Fosinopril sodium is a prescription drug that treats high blood pressure and heart failure. Fosinopril sodium is available as an oral tablet. The drug has not been sufficiently tested in children to determine if it can be safely administered. As with all drugs, fosinopril sodium has side effects that some patients will encounter.

Cough

Fosinopril sodium is in a drug class known as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. These medications have a frequent side effect of cough. Drugs.com describes this cough as persistent and relates that no sputum or phlegm is produced from this coughing. It is unknown exactly why this cough occurs, but two major theories exist. The first is that the ACEs, which are suppressed, usually lower the amount of certain substances in the body that cause a group of nerve fibers to be stimulated, leading to cough. The second theory is that these substances cause the production of other inflammatory substances, leading to cough. Other respiratory-related side effects noted during fosinopril sodium administration include inflamed sinuses, bronchitis, asthma, sneezing, sore throat, difficulty breathing and stuffy or runny nose.

Nausea

The 2010 Lippincott's Nursing Drug Guide reports that nausea is another common side effect of fosinopril sodium. Similarly, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite and stomach pain are occasional side effects.

Dizziness

A common side effect of fosinopril sodium is dizziness and it is more pronounced in patients with heart failure. This may be accompanied by lightheadedness on standing, weakness, chest pain or a sensation of the heart pounding in the chest. These additional symptoms may also occur without dizziness. The episodes are usually temporary and patients are cautioned to not drive or perform any critical tasks while lightheaded or dizzy.

Lower Than Normal Blood Pressure

If a patient taking fosinopril sodium becomes dehydrated due to diarrhea, excessive vomiting or prolonged sweating, his blood pressure may drop significantly. Dehydration causes a loss of blood volume. The body tries to compensate for this decreased blood volume by increasing the heart's output, but it often cannot do so and blood pressure decreases as less blood flows through the arteries. Remain properly hydrated while taking this drug. Some patients taking fosinopril sodium will experience a greater than anticipated decrease in blood pressure despite being properly hydrated.

Muscle Pain

Muscle pain can occur when taking fosinopril sodium. Also, muscle spasms, joint pain, bone pain and loss of muscle strength are all known side effects.

Serious Side Effects

The Mayo Clinic describes some serious side effects of fosinopril sodium as a fast heart rate, slow heart rate, irregular heart rhythm, sweating, cold sweat and blurry vision. Confusion can also be indicative of a serious response.

Fetal Damage

If a woman taking this medication becomes pregnant, severe damage to the fetus can occur. Female patients of child-bearing potential are directed to utilize an effective birth control method while taking fosinopril sodium.

Allergic Reaction

A severe allergic reaction can occur from taking this drug. Possible manifestations include hives, itching, rash and swelling of the face, mouth, tongue and throat. Throat swelling can make breathing difficult.