Products
Fosinopril is commercially available in tablet form. It has been approved in many countries since 1991. The original fosinopril is no longer available. Only fixed combinations with hydrochlorothiazide are currently on the market (generics). Fosicomp is also off the market.
Structure and properties
Fosinopril (C30H46NO7P, Mr = 563.7 g/mol) is present in drugs as fosinopril sodium, a white crystalline powder that is soluble in water. It is a prodrug and is metabolized in the body to the active metabolite fosinoprilat.
Effects
Fosinopril (ATC C09AA09) has antihypertensive properties and unloads the heart (preload and afterload). The effects are due to inhibition of the formation of angiotensin II from angiotensin I by inhibition of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE). Fosinopril thus abolishes the effects of antiogensin II.
Indications
For the treatment of hypertension (essential hypertension) and heart failure.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The tablets are usually taken once daily and independently of meals.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Previous angioedema while taking ACE inhibitors.
- Renal artery stenosis, after renal transplantation.
- Certain heart diseases
- Primary hyperaldosteronism
- Pregnancy and lactation
- Concurrent use of aliskiren in patients with diabetes mellitus or impaired renal function.
Full details of precautions and interactions can be found in the drug label.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include excessive lowering of blood pressure, renal dysfunction, dry irritable cough, digestive disturbances, allergic reactions, headache, and fatigue.
