What is Mavik (Trandolapril) prescribed for?

Mavik (Trandolapril) is used to treat High Blood pressure (also known as hypertension), which is a measure of force of blood that pushes against the blood vessel walls. The heart pumps blood into the blood vessels and throughout the body.  High Blood Pressure makes the heart work harder to pump blood out to the body and therefore contributes to the hardening of the arteries, can cause stroke, kidney disease, and heart failure.

This medication helps to lower high blood pressure, to help prevent from gaining these symptoms. Overall, this medication works by relaxing the blood vessels so the blood can flow at a much easier pace. However, it is also used to treat heart failure and also used to improve survival after a heart attack. This medication, Trandolapril belongs to a class of drugs known as ACE inhibitors.

This medication is to be taken by mouth, with or without food. And it is usually taken once or twice a day. To reduce any side effects your doctor may recommend that you begin taking this medication at a low dose and have it gradually increase as time goes by.

This medication must be taken on a regular basis to gain the most benefit. Keep taking it, even if you feel well, since most people with high blood pressure do not feel ill.

For treatment of high blood pressure it may take up to 1 week before you start to see any of the effects of the drug, and for those that are taking it for treatment for heart failure, it make take several weeks to months before you gain the full benefit of this medication.

Before taking this medication, it is best to advise your doctor if you are allergic to Trandolapril; or to other ACE inhibitors (such as captopril, lisinopril); or to any other medications or allergies in general.

Also it is best to notify your doctor of your medical history. Inform you doctor if you have had any serious health issues in the past, such as; 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, liver disease.

Too much sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting may cause loss of too much body water (dehydration) and increase your risk of lightheadedness. Report prolonged diarrhea or vomiting to your doctor. Be sure to drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration unless your doctor directs you otherwise.

This medication may increase your potassium levels. Before using potassium supplements or salt substitutes that contain potassium, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Some of these side effects may occur when taking this medication; they are as follows; Dizziness, lightheadedness, or tiredness may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. Dry cough may also occur. However if any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor right away.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: symptoms of a high potassium blood level (such as muscle weakness, slow/irregular heartbeat), fainting.

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

This drug may rarely cause serious (possibly fatal) liver disease. Get medical help right away if you have any symptoms of liver damage, such as: nausea/vomiting that doesn't stop, loss of appetite, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine.

What happens if I suddenly stop taking this medication?

There may be a relapse in symptoms as well as side effects. You should speak your doctor before stop taking this medication.

 What is the best dosage to take?

The diagnosis with your doctor will be able to determine the best dosage for your treatment. Work with your doctor closely for dosage and dosing schedules.

 What happens if I miss a dose?

You should take the missed dose as soon you realize you have forgotten. If the forgotten dose is closer to your next scheduled dose, take the next schedule dose to avoid overlapping in dose.

 What is the best way to store this medication?

This medication is stored at room temperature, and should be kept away from children and pets. Do not throw away this medication in the wastebasket. If you are uncertain how to dispose of this medication speak with your pharmacist for help in safely disposing of this medication.