Patient was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Captopril as follows: Drink 2.5 liters to 3 liters of fluid every day, as Captopril tends to cause loss of fluid volume and consequently, dehydration. If fluid is restricted in an individual for reasons, such as, congestive heart failure or dialysis dependent status, compliance to the recommendation made is very important. Be aware of signs and symptoms of dehydration and hypotension, to avoid any episodes [...]

Patient was educated on the side effects of using Captopril as follows: High potassium levels Captopril tends to retain potassium in the body, in exchange for sodium loss. This can lead to high potassium levels, which can be very dangerous at times. Grossly elevated potassium levels can sometimes result in irregular heart rhythms, leading to episodes of dizziness, abnormally fast heart rate, palpitations, shortness of breath with poor endurance, and chest pain. Dry cough Dry [...]

Patient was educated on the side effects of using Captopril as follows: Dehydration Captopril by inhibiting secretion of aldosterone, results in water loss from the body. This can lead to fluid volume depletion and symptoms of dehydration. Low sodium levels Captopril by inhibiting secretion of aldosterone, results in sodium loss from the body. This can lead to hyponatremia (low sodium levels in blood). Side effects include nausea and vomiting, extreme lethargy, muscle cramps, weakness, and [...]

Patient was educated on contraindications for using Captopril as follows: Liver disease Captopril is a prodrug, which when taken is activated in the liver. If liver function is deficient, this activation of Captopril can suffer and so, does the function too. Renal disease Captopril is mainly eliminated by the kidneys. Individuals with renal disease and diminished renal function cannot eliminate Captopril normally. So, Captopril can be toxic in individuals with renal disease.  

Patient was educated on how to take Captopril as follows: Take the medication at the same time every day, to avoid forgetting the medication. Maintain strict compliance with intake of the medication as ordered, with regards to dosage and frequency, to derive the benefit of the medication. Do not change the dose on this medication without consulting your doctor. Take a blood pressure reading always before you take the pill. Maintain a log of every [...]