People taking a common medication could be at risk of a serious kidney-related side effect that may require medical supervision. The drug is often prescribed for heart failure and high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, and can be given following a heart attack.

Ramipril was prescribed 34.8million times in 2024 alone. As well as being used regularly to help prevent future strokes, heart attacks and kidney problems, it also improves your survival if you're taking it for heart failure or after a heart attack.

It works by expanding the body's blood vessels, helping easier blood flow throughout the body. It's usually dispensed as a capsule, tablet, or a liquid to swallow.

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While ramipril can be effective in managing hypertension and certain heart conditions, it can also lead to a range of side effects. Some of these side effects might be severe enough to necessitate a 999 call or a trip to A&E.

Although ramipril can cause a variety of adverse side effects, it's crucial to remember that many people may not experience any side effects at all. NHS guidanceemphasises that if you need to take ramipril over an extended period, your kidneys may not function as well as they should.

However, those taking ramipril should bear in mind that their doctor can regularly monitor their kidney function, typically through routine blood tests.

Other common side effects that can affect more than one in 100 people include:

• A mild skin rash


• Blurred vision


• A dry, tickly cough


• Diarrhoea


• Vomiting


• Headaches


• Dizziness or lightheadedness

Ramipril can also cause more serious side effects that can happen in some rare cases. These can include:

• Kidney problems signified by blood in urine, lack or urination, or swollen ankles


• Signs of bone marrow disorder such as paleness, dizziness, tiredness, bruising more, high temperature


• Whites of eyes or skin turning yellow, which can signify a liver issue


• Severe stomach pain

In some rare cases, people taking ramipril can suffer from a severe allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis, which the NHS advises warrants a call to 999. Symptoms of anaphylaxis can include:

• Swelling of lips, throat, or tongue


• Tight feeling in throat or struggling to swallow


• Confusion


• Fainting without being able to be woken up


• Skin, lips, or tongue turning blue, pale, or grey


• Very fast breathing or struggling to breathe

Full details on ramipril are available on the NHS website here.