Drug Guide
Perindopril Erbumine
Classification
Therapeutic: Antihypertensive, Cardiac failure agent
Pharmacological: ACE Inhibitor (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitor)
FDA Approved Indications
- Management of hypertension
- Treatment of stable coronary artery disease and reduction of cardiovascular mortality in patients with previous myocardial infarction
Mechanism of Action
Perindopril inhibits the angiotensin-converting enzyme, which decreases the formation of angiotensin II, leading to vasodilation, decreased blood pressure, and reduced cardiac workload.
Dosage and Administration
Adult: Typically 4 mg once daily, adjustable up to 8 mg daily based on response.
Pediatric: Not indicated for pediatric use.
Geriatric: Start at lower doses due to increased sensitivity.
Renal Impairment: Dose adjustment required; initially 2 mg once daily, titrate as tolerated.
Hepatic Impairment: Use with caution; start at lower doses.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Well absorbed orally.
Distribution: Widely distributed; protein binding approximately 20%.
Metabolism: Partially metabolized in the liver to active metabolite perindoprilat.
Excretion: Excreted mainly by the kidneys.
Half Life: 4-10 hours for perindopril; longer for its active metabolite.
Contraindications
- History of angioedema related to previous ACE inhibitor use
- Concomitant use with aliskiren in patients with diabetes or renal impairment
Precautions
- Pregnancy (category D), use during pregnancy may cause fetal morbidity and mortality
- Monitoring kidney function and potassium levels during therapy
- Patients with bilateral renal artery stenosis or unilat renal artery stenosis
Adverse Reactions - Common
- Cough (Common)
- Dizziness (Common)
- Headache (Common)
- Fatigue (Common)
Adverse Reactions - Serious
- Angioedema (Rare)
- Hyperkalemia (Rare)
- Hypotension (Rare)
- Acute renal failure (Rare)
Drug-Drug Interactions
- Diuretics, especially potassium-sparing agents
- Other antihypertensives, additive hypotensive effect
- Antidiabetic agents (may increase risk of hypoglycemia)
- Potassium supplements, potassium salts
Drug-Food Interactions
N/ADrug-Herb Interactions
N/ANursing Implications
Assessment: Monitor blood pressure, renal function, and serum potassium regularly.
Diagnoses:
- Risk for decreased cardiac output
- Risk for electrolyte imbalance
Implementation: Administer as prescribed, usually once daily; monitor for signs of hypotension.
Evaluation: Assess blood pressure response and tolerability, adjust dose accordingly.
Patient/Family Teaching
- Take medication exactly as prescribed, even if feeling well.
- Report signs of angioedema, hyperkalemia, or severe hypotension immediately.
- Avoid potassium-rich foods and potassium supplements unless directed by healthcare provider.
- Inform healthcare provider of all medications and supplements being taken.
Special Considerations
Black Box Warnings:
- Fetal toxicity if used during pregnancy
Genetic Factors: None specific to this drug
Lab Test Interference: May increase serum potassium and serum creatinine; monitor accordingly.
Overdose Management
Signs/Symptoms: Severe hypotension, renal impairment, hyperkalemia.
Treatment: Discontinue drug, provide supportive care, administer vasopressors if needed, and consider dialysis for severe cases.
Storage and Handling
Storage: Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Stability: Stable in original container until expiration date.