Definition

Noun: A synthetic drug that acts as an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. It works by blocking the formation of a substance that causes blood vessels to constrict, resulting in vasodilation (widening of blood vessels). It is primarily used as a medication to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and congestive heart failure.

Usage Examples

• The doctor prescribed captopril to help manage her patient's hypertension.
• Captopril is often part of a treatment regimen for congestive heart failure.
• A common side effect of taking captopril can be a persistent dry cough.

Advanced Usage

• Therapeutic Use: In clinical contexts, captopril is described as a first-generation ACE inhibitor. Its use is monitored due to potential effects on kidney function and potassium levels.
  • The cardiologist adjusted the captopril dosage after reviewing the patient's renal function tests.

Variants and Related Words

• ACE inhibitor (Noun): The broader class of drugs to which captopril belongs. Other examples include enalapril and lisinopril.
• Antihypertensive (Noun/Adjective): A substance or drug used to lower high blood pressure. Captopril is an antihypertensive agent.
• Vasodilator (Noun): A drug that causes widening of blood vessels. Captopril has a vasodilatory effect.

Synonyms

• Capoten: This is the primary trade name for the drug captopril.
• ACE inhibitor: While not a direct synonym, it is the categorical term.

Notes on Meaning

This word has a single, specific meaning in modern English, referring exclusively to the pharmaceutical compound. It does not have idiomatic or phrasal verb uses.

Noun

1. a drug (trade name Capoten) that blocks the formation of angiotensin in the kidneys resulting in vasodilation; used in the treatment of hypertension and congestive heart failure