fosinopril, an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor. It inhibits the formation of the hormone angiotensin II, which is a powerful vasoconstrictor that also stimulates the release of the sodium-retaining hormone aldosterone. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is prescribed alone or in combination for the treatment of high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, and left ventricular dysfunction following myocardial infarction. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: It should not be given to patients with allergy to angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors. It should be used with caution in patients with kidney diseases or diabetes or with potassium-containing products. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: The side effects most often reported include “first-dose effect,” including dizziness and fainting caused by lowered blood pressure, persistent dry nonproductive cough, depression, headache, palpitations, breathing difficulty, and fluid retention.
