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Captopril
What is captopril?
Captopril (brand names: Capoten®, Captril®) is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. It is used to treat congestive heart failure and high blood pressure. Newer ACE inhibitors that are FDA-approved for animal use are more common, but captopril is still available.
Its use in cats and dogs to treat high blood pressure and congestive heart failure off label (extra label). Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine.
“Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.
How is captopril given?
This medication should take effect within 1 to 2 hours; however, effects may not be noted outwardly, so laboratory tests may be needed to evaluate this medication’s effectiveness.
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then wait the recommended time for the next dose, as prescribed by your veterinarian. Do not give the pet two doses at once.
Captopril may cause the following side effects:
Serious adverse reactions may occur. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving captopril and contact your veterinarian immediately:
Drug sensitivities can develop over time, with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.
Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately. This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.
DO NOT USE captopril in:
USE WITH CAUTION in:
Several medications should be used with caution when given with captopril, including:
Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.
If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet's weight and symptoms.
© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Directorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Last updated on Jun 11, 2025.
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