The few side effects of Vasotec® tend to be very mild, and for the most part, patients tend to respond well to the drug. While the most common side effect across the board is dizziness or lightheadedness, other side effects can vary slightly depending on whether the patient is using the drug for high blood pressure versus heart failure. Those taking the drug for high blood pressure are more prone to headaches and fatigue, while those on Vasotec® for congestive heart failure are more likely to experience low blood pressure and a dry cough. Some of the more serious potential side effects of Vasotec® include otherwise unexplained swelling, rash, stomach pains or flu-like symptoms, and changes in urination. Should they occur, these symptoms should be reported to a physician.
Side effects of Vasotec® involving dizzy spells may occur most consistently when just sitting or standing up. This can occur in some people under normal situations, but the effect may be heightened under the usage of the drug. In rarer cases, patients may become prone to fainting or vertigo.
Patients with high blood pressure may more frequently experience headaches and fatigue as side effects of Vasotec®, the former being the most common. Those taking the drug for congestive heart failure may experience the converse effect of having their blood pressure excessively decreased, which may, in turn, further contribute to lightheadedness. In addition, Vasotec® may also cause these patients to have a dry cough, which will generally be persistent in nature but is known to successfully disappear after the patient stops using the drug. Dry mouth may accompany this.
Unexplained swelling in different areas of the body is among the more severe side effects of Vasotec® and should be reported to a physician. This swelling may occur anywhere in the head or neck region, including the face, throat, lips, or mouth. It may also occur in the hands and feet, and may sometimes be accompanied by rapid weight gain.
Vasotec® may also, in rarer, but more severe, cases, lead to skin rash and itching. In some cases, the rash may be mild, but in more severe cases, the skin may develop blisters or begin to peel. Patients who experience these symptoms should consult a physician as soon as possible.
A small number of patients have experienced flu-like symptoms as a result of Vasotec®. This may include fever, chills, body soreness, or any other symptoms commonly associated with flu. In addition, while some have also experienced mild nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, all patients should consult a physician if they experience severe stomach pains and/or vomiting.
Changes in urination may involve either an increase or decrease in the level of urine normally produced, both of which should be reported to the patient's doctor. Generally, a decrease in urination is more common, as certain chemicals in Vasotec® have been observed to reduce the normal functioning of the kidneys. Urinary tract infection is also a viable side effect of Vasotec®.