Life Science Encyclopedia

Quinapril (marketed under the brand name Accupril by Pfizer) is an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACE inhibitor) used in the treatment of hypertension and congestive heart failure.

Pharmacology

Quinapril is a prodrug. It is converted to its active metabolite, quinaprilat, in the liver.

Mechanism of action

Main article: ACE inhibitor

See also: Angiotensin and renin-angiotensin system

Quinapril inhibits angiotensin converting enzyme, an enzyme which catalyses the formation of angiotensin II from its precursor, angiotensin I. Angiotensin II is a powerful vasoconstrictor and increases blood pressure through a variety of mechanisms. Due to reduced angiotensin production, plasma concentrations of aldosterone are also reduced, resulting in increased excretion of sodium in the urine and increased concentrations of potassium in the blood.

Indications

Quinapril is indicated for the treatment of high blood pressure (hypertension) and as adjunctive therapy in the management of heart failure. It may be used for the treatment of hypertension by itself or in combination with thiazide diuretics, and with diuretics and digoxin for heart failure.

Contraindications

• Pregnancy
• Impaired renal and liver function
• Patients with a history of angioedema related to previous treatment with an ACE inhibitor.
• Hypersensitive to Quinapril

Side effects

Side effects of quinapril include dizziness, cough, vomiting, upset stomach and fatigue.