Trandolapril
Trandolapril is an ACE inhibitor used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, and to improve survival after heart attacks. It works by blocking an enzyme that causes blood vessels to constrict, allowing blood to flow more easily and reducing the heart's workload.
Trandolapril is an ACE inhibitor that lowers blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels and is used for hypertension, heart failure, and post-heart attack care.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- C09AA10
- RxNorm
- 38454
- Generic
- Trandolapril
- Class
- atc-c09
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet, capsule
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 500mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 250mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 400mg daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
8 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks
regular fetal monitoring
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pregnancy
second third trimesterdiscontinue immediately
contraindicated due to risk of fetal renal failure, oligohydramnios, and death
fetal ultrasound for renal function and amniotic fluid
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
lactation
breastfeedinguse with caution
small amounts excreted in breast milk, monitor infant for hypotension
monitor infant blood pressure and renal function
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
children adolescentsnot recommended
not recommended in pediatric patients due to limited safety and efficacy data
renal function and blood pressure monitoring if used
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
geriatric
elderly over 65start at lower dose
initiate at lowest effective dose, monitor for hypotension and renal function
regular blood pressure and renal function monitoring
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
mild to moderatereduce dose if needed
use with caution, may need dose reduction based on creatinine clearance
monitor renal function and potassium levels
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
severesignificant dose reduction
use with extreme caution, consider alternative therapy
close monitoring of renal function, electrolytes, and urine output
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
any severityuse with caution
use with caution, may require dose adjustment in severe impairment
monitor liver function tests and blood pressure
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
Statistics and clinical data
Commonly prescribed since
General prescribing information
Drug class
Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor class
Common uses
Common therapeutic uses
Mechanism of action
Pharmacodynamic properties
Treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure), heart failure, and improvement of survival in patients with left ventricular dysfunction after myocardial infarction. May also be used in diabetic nephropathy.
Trandolapril inhibits angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), preventing the formation of angiotensin II—a potent vasoconstrictor. This results in blood vessel relaxation, reduced blood pressure, decreased aldosterone secretion, and lowered fluid retention.
Common side effects include dry cough, dizziness, and headache. Contraindicated during pregnancy (especially 2nd and 3rd trimesters) due to risk of fetal harm. Can cause angioedema. May elevate potassium levels; avoid potassium supplements unless directed. Inform your doctor of all medications before starting treatment.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 24, 2026. · Read our editorial policy