Does Captopril Interact with Nitroglycerin?
Captopril and Nitroglycerin have a moderate drug interaction according to U.S. FDA drug labeling data. Data on concomitant use with captopril for heart failure are not available. Should be discontinued before starting captopril if possible; if resumed, administer cautiously at lower dosage. The mechanism involves additive vasodilator activity. Patients taking both medications should consult their healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing the dosage of either drug. This information is based on official FDA drug labeling sourced from OpenFDA and the NIH National Library of Medicine.
- Severity
- Moderate
- Captopril Class
- Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitor
- Nitroglycerin Class
- Nitrate Vasodilator
- Management
- Monitor for effects
- Data Source
- U.S. FDA via OpenFDA
How This Interaction Works
The interaction between Captopril and Nitroglycerin occurs because additive vasodilator activity. Clinically, this means data on concomitant use with captopril for heart failure are not available. should be discontinued before starting captopril if possible; if resumed, administer cautiously at lower dosage. This is classified as a moderate interaction. While it may not require stopping either medication, your healthcare provider should be aware you are taking both so they can monitor for potential effects and adjust treatment if necessary.
What To Tell Your Doctor or Pharmacist
If you are taking Captopril and your doctor is considering prescribing Nitroglycerin (or vice versa), make sure to:
- Inform your doctor and pharmacist of all current medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements
- Ask whether the benefits of combining these medications outweigh the risks for your specific situation
- Ask what symptoms to watch for that would indicate the interaction is causing problems
- Ask whether any dosage adjustments are needed
- Never stop or change either medication without first consulting your healthcare provider