Fosinopril is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. It is also used to treat heart failure.

Fosinopril is an ACE inhibitor and works by relaxing blood vessels so that blood can flow more easily.

Fosinopril may also be used in addition to digoxin or a thiazide diuretic or both to treat congestive heart failure.

Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful to people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.

Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once or twice daily.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Antacids containing aluminum or magnesium can decrease the absorption of fosinopril. If you are taking an antacid that contains aluminum or magnesium, take it at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking this product.

Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick.

For the treatment of high blood pressure, it may take several weeks before you get the full benefit of this medication. For the treatment of heart failure, it may take weeks to months before you get the full benefit of this medication. Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens (such as your blood pressure readings remain high or increase).

This drug can cause serious (possibly fatal) harm to an unborn baby if used during pregnancy. Therefore, it is important to prevent pregnancy while taking this medication. Consult your doctor for more details and to discuss the use of reliable forms of birth control while taking this medication. If you are planning a pregnancy, become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant, contact your doctor right away.

Before taking fosinopril, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it, or to other ACE inhibitors (such as benazepril); or if you have any other allergies. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: a history of an allergic reaction which included swelling of the face/lips/tongue/throat (angioedema), blood filtering procedures (such as LDL apheresis, dialysis), high level of potassium in the blood.

Dizziness or lightheadedness may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. Dry cough may also occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor right away if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: fainting, symptoms of a high potassium blood level (such as muscle weakness, slow/irregular heartbeat).

Although fosinopril may be used to prevent kidney problems or treat people who have kidney problems, it may also rarely cause serious kidney problems or make them worse. Your doctor will check your kidney function while you are taking fosinopril. Tell your doctor right away if you have any signs of kidney problems such as a change in the amount of urine.

How long does it take before Fosinopril works?

Fosinopril can work to lower your blood pressure within about an hour of taking your dose.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Fosinopril? 

Yes, drinking alcohol seems to be okay while taking Fosinopril, but do it in moderation. Alcohol can affect your blood pressure and also increase your risk for side effects such as dizziness, lightheadedness, and loss of balance.