Health
Pharmacist warning on the ramipril side effect that 'could be deadly'
Key Points
Pharmacist warning on the ramipril side effect that 'could be deadly' A TikTok pharmacist has warned people taking a common blood pressure medication to watch out for one thing Ramipril is prescribed to treat high blood pressure and heart failure, and is also used after a heart attack. An estimated six million people take the common medication, and an expert is warning them about a "deadly" side effect. A warning was issued by pharmacist Raj Patel, known as the 'Straight-Talking Pharmacist'...
Pharmacist warning on the ramipril side effect that 'could be deadly'
A TikTok pharmacist has warned people taking a common blood pressure medication to watch out for one thing
Ramipril is prescribed to treat high blood pressure and heart failure, and is also used after a heart attack. An estimated six million people take the common medication, and an expert is warning them about a "deadly" side effect.
A warning was issued by pharmacist Raj Patel, known as the 'Straight-Talking Pharmacist' on TikTok where he has over 100,000 followers and 613,000 likes. He, along with the NHS, says feeling dizzy or light-headed is common, particularly for those starting treatment or increasing their dose.
In a recent video, Mr Patel told viewers: "This ramipril side effect could be deadly. Always check your blood pressure. Low blood pressure can lead to light-headedness and dizziness.”
While these symptoms do not automatically mean something dangerous is happening, persistent or severe dizziness should not be ignored, particularly if someone feels faint. Mr Patel also went on to warn about swelling of the face, lips and throat, breathing difficulties and yellowing of the skin or eyes.
The NHS says sudden swelling of the lips, mouth, throat or tongue, or difficulty breathing, can indicate a serious allergic reaction requiring immediate emergency help. See its full list of side effects below - note, it is not exhaustive.
NHS ramipril side effects
- Dry, persistent cough
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Headaches
- Diarrhoea
- Vomiting
- Mild skin rash
- Yellow skin or eyes
- Severe stomach pain
- Unusual paleness, tiredness, faintness, bleeding or bruising
- Sore throat, fever or repeated infections
- Swollen ankles
- Blood in urine or passing no urine
- Sudden swelling of the lips, mouth, throat or tongue
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing;
- Signs of stroke, such as weakness on one side or trouble speaking
- Chest pain with a fast heartbeat
The NHS advises people who feel dizzy to sit or lie down until they feel better and avoid driving or operating machinery while affected. Anyone worried about side effects should speak to their doctor or pharmacist, and should not change their prescribed dose without medical advice.