Patient was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Zestril as follows: Observe compliance with regular lab work ordered. Since the drug can lead to high potassium levels in the body, potassium levels in the blood could be closely monitored. Also, as kidneys are the main source of elimination of the drug, renal function could be periodically monitored. Keep a watch on the volume of urine output, at least for the initial one month [...]

Patient was educated on the side effects of using Zestril as follows: High potassium levels Zestril 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 Zestril as follows: Dehydration Zestril 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 Zestril by inhibiting secretion of aldosterone, result 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 Zestril as follows: Liver disease Zestril is a drug that is mainly metabolized in the liver. If liver function is deficient, the metabolism of Zestril can suffer and so, does the function too. Renal disease Zestril is mainly eliminated by the kidneys. Individuals with renal disease and diminished renal function cannot met Zestril normally. So, Zestril can be toxic in individuals with renal disease.  

Patient was educated on how to take Zestril 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 [...]