Monopril (Fosinopril) is a prescription medication used to treat high blood pressure. High blood pressure or hypertension can cause organ damage if left untreated. Monopril is also used to treat adults with congestive heart failure. Congestive heart failure is a condition where the heart does not pump blood as effectively as it should. This leads to fluid buildup in the body, resulting in symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and swelling in the legs and feet. The active ingredient in Monopril is Fosinopril. Fosinopril belongs to a class of drugs called angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It works by decreasing certain chemicals that constrict the blood vessels, allowing blood flow to occur more smoothly and helping the heart pump blood more efficiently.

Manufacturer Information

Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while using Monopril. The most common side effects of Monopril may include the following:
• Chest pain;
• Diarrhea;
• Dizziness;
• Muscle pain;
• Nausea;
• Runny nose

Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Feeling like you might pass out;
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as trouble breathing, hives, swelling of the face, lips, or throat;
• Signs of high blood potassium, such as nausea, weakness, irregular heartbeats, chest pain, tingly feeling;
• Signs of kidney problems, such as a significant decrease in urination, unusual fatigue, swelling in your feet or ankles, nausea

These are not all of Monopril's side effects. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.

You should not use Monopril if you are allergic to Fosinopril or any ingredient in Monopril. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are on a low-salt diet;
• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant;
• Have a planned surgery;
• Have diabetes;
• Have heart disease or heart problems, including a recent heart attack;
• Have kidney disease;
• Have liver disease;
• Have low blood pressure;
• Have severe allergic reactions, such as angioedema

Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Monopril and other medicines, such as amiloride, sirolimus, aspirin, aliskiren, allopurinol, metformin, amlodipine, and furosemide. Do not take Monopril within 36 hours before or after taking a medicine containing sacubitril. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Fosinopril can harm an unborn baby, causing injury or death, primarily if used during your second or third trimester. Use effective birth control to prevent pregnancy while using this drug. Do not breastfeed when using this medicine. Fosinopril can pass into breast milk and potentially harm a nursing infant. Use this medicine exactly as your doctor prescribes. Monopril comes as a tablet. You may take the drug without food. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not chew, crush, or break the tablet. Your doctor will monitor your blood pressure frequently while you are using Monopril. This medicine may make you dizzy. Avoid getting up too fast from a sitting or lying position to reduce your risk of dizziness. Be cautious if you drive or engage in any activity that requires you to be alert. Do not take potassium supplements or salt substitutes while using Monopril unless your doctor has instructed you to do so. Fosinopril may make you dehydrated. Avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated during exercise or in hot weather. Drink enough fluids as advised by your doctor when using this medicine. Store this drug at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.

Check out our Blog Post The Hidden Threat: “Silent” Nutrient Deficiencies in Aging Adults