How Does Quinapril-Hydrochlorothiazide Work?
Quinapril-hydrochlorothiazide is a combination of two medicines --
Accupril® (
quinapril) and
hydrochlorothiazide. Accupril is part of a class of drugs called angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, or ACE inhibitors for short. Accupril helps to block the angiotensin-converting enzyme, which is normally part of a reaction in the body that causes the blood vessels to narrow (constrict). By blocking this enzyme, Accupril causes blood vessels to relax.
Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic, which is commonly referred to as a "water pill." It works by increasing the amount of salt and water that the kidneys remove from the blood. This extra salt and water is passed out through the urine. By increasing the amount of water removed from the blood, hydrochlorothiazide causes a decrease in blood volume.
Because of the effects of both Accupril and hydrochlorothiazide, quinapril-hydrochlorothiazide can
lower blood pressure. Because of its combined effects, quinapril-hydrochlorothiazide causes a greater drop in
blood pressure than when either medicine is used alone.
Is Quinapril-Hydrochlorothiazide Used in Children?
Quinapril-hydrochlorothiazide has not been approved for use in children.
Is Quinapril-Hydrochlorothiazide Used Off-Label?
On occasion, your healthcare provider may recommend quinapril-hydrochlorothiazide for treating a condition other than the one listed above. This is called an "
off-label" use. At this time, there are no universally accepted off-label quinapril-hydrochlorothiazide uses.
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