Aceon is in a class of drugs called angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors).

Aceon is a medication which lowers blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels; it is not a cure. High blood pressure levels can damage your kidneys, and may lead to a stroke or heart failure.

Aceon can be taken alone or in combination with thiazide diuretics that help the body get rid of excess water.

Aceon can be taken with or without food.

ADULTS
The usual starting dose of Aceon is 4 milligrams daily, taken as a single dose or divided into two smaller doses. Your doctor may increase the dose until your blood pressure is under control, up to a maximum of 16 milligrams per day. A dose of 4 to 8 milligrams a day is usually sufficient.

If you have been taking a diuretic, your doctor may tell you to stop taking it 2 or 3 days before you start taking Aceon . If you need to continue the diuretic without interruption, the doctor may start you on Aceon at a reduced dose of 2 to 4 milligrams daily, and then gradually increase the dose if necessary.

If your blood pressure is not adequately controlled with Aceon alone, the doctor may add a diuretic to your regimen.

Aceon has not been tested in people with severe kidney disease. If you have mild kidney problems, the usual starting dosage is 2 milligrams or less per day. The dosage may be increased gradually to not more than 8 milligrams per day.

CHILDREN
Aceon has not been tested in children.

OLDER ADULTS
Higher doses of Aceon (above 8 milligrams a day) are prescribed for older adults only with extra caution.

If you miss a Aceon dose
If you miss a dose of Aceon, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Aceon Overdose
Aceon when taken in excess can cause serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose seek medical attention immediately.
The most likely warning signs of an Aceon overdose are symptoms of excessively low blood pressure, including dizziness and light-headedness.

Aceon Storage instructions

• Keep out of the reach of children.
• Store away from heat and direct light, at a temperature between 20 and 25 degree C (68 and 77 degrees F).
• Do not store in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink, or in other damp places. Heat or moisture may cause Aceon to break down.
• Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed. Be sure that any discarded Aceon is out of the reach of children.

Aceon Preparations: Tablets – 2 mg, 4 mg, 8 mg.

The blood pressure lowering effect of Aceon is increased by:-

• Other blood pressure reducing agents
• Anaesthetics

Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (e.g. ibuprofen) reduce the effect of Aceon on lowering blood pressure and may increase the risk of kidney damage.

When given with lithium, the levels of lithium in the blood may be increased.

If given with the immunosuppressant, e.g. cyclosporine, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), potassium retaining water tablet (diuretics) or potassium salts there is an increased risk of raised level of blood potassium (hyperkalaemia).

Most Important Fact about Aceon

Aceon should be taken regularly to be effective. Blood pressure declines gradually and so it may take several weeks before you get the full benefit of the drug. You must continue taking Aceon even if you are feeling well. Aceon does not cure blood pressure; it merely keeps it under control.

Aceon precautions if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
Aceon should not be used during pregnancy, as it may be harmful to the unborn baby. Seek medical advice from your doctor. It is not known whether Aceon passes into breast milk. Seek medical advice from your doctor before using Aceon during breastfeeding

Special warnings about Aceon
If you develop signs of an allergic reaction (swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat; swollen arms and legs; difficulty swallowing or breathing) stop taking Aceon and contact your doctor immediately. You may need emergency treatment.

Aceon occasionally makes people dizzy, light-headed or faint, especially during the first few days of therapy. If these symptoms occur, contact your doctor. Do not drive, operate dangerous machinery, or participate in any hazardous activity that requires full mental alertness until you know how Aceon affects you.

Aceon can cause excessively low blood pressure, especially if your body is short of fluid. This problem is more likely if you are also taking a diuretic or suffer from diarrhea, vomiting, or excessive sweating. Call your doctor if you develop such signs of fluid depletion as dry mouth, weakness or fatigue, unusual thirst, restlessness or confusion, or reduced urination.

In rare instances, Aceon can damage the kidneys. When prescribing Aceon , your doctor will perform a complete assessment of your kidney function and will continue to monitor it. If you have kidney disease, the drug should be used with caution. The doctor will also take extra care if you have congestive heart failure or circulatory problems.

Aceon occasionally causes an unwanted increase in the body\\\'s potassium level. Do not use potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium without your doctor\\\'s okay.

Contact your doctor promptly if you develop any sign of infection, such as a sore throat or fever. Also be sure to let the doctor know if you develop a persistent, dry cough. It could be a side effect that will disappear if the doctor switches you to another medication.

There have been rare cases of liver damage linked to Aceon . If you develop signs of liver problems such as yellowish skin and eyes, stop taking Aceon and contact your doctor.

If you are receiving bee or wasp venom to prevent an allergic reaction to stings, taking Aceon at the same time may cause a severe allergic reaction. Make sure the allergist knows you are taking Aceon . In fact, before any type of procedure, notify your doctor that you are taking this drug.

Why Aceon should not be prescribed ?
Aceon should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy.

More common side effects of Aceon may include:

• cough (dry, persistent)
• headache

Less common side effects of Aceon may include:

• dizziness,
• light-headedness, or fainting,
• skin rash, with or without itching,
• fever,
• joint pain
• diarrhea,
• loss of taste,
• nausea,
• unusual tiredness

Rare side effects of Aceon may include:

• abdominal pain,
• abdominal distention,
• fever,
• nausea, or vomiting ,
• chest pain