Let's take a minute to talk about your medication. 

This is captopril. It treats high blood pressure. Over time, this can protect your heart, brain, kidneys and eyes. Captopril has other uses, too, like treating heart failure.

You should take this medicine exactly as your doctor tells you to. You should take each dose on an empty stomach, and at least 1 hour before a meal.  

Most people tolerate this medicine well. At first, you may feel tired. This is normal if it is mild, and it should go away. If this side effect or others become reasons you want to stop taking it, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist. 

You should tell your doctor if you have changes to your body that do not go away. These include a fever, sore throat, rash or dry cough. Also, call your doctor if you feel dizzy or lightheaded. In fact, it is a good idea to stand up slowly, until you know how it affects you. 

You may reduce certain side effects by staying hydrated. You should ask your doctor how much fluid to drink each day. Also, avoid sweating too much, and tell your doctor if you have diarrhea or vomiting.

As with any medicine, rare side effects can occur, like an allergic reaction. Get medical help right away for problems breathing or swallowing, or for swelling in your face, throat or elsewhere. 

You should ask your doctor or pharmacist before taking other medicines. This includes medicines that treat pain or fever, or that contain potassium. Also, ask before using salt substitutes. 

This medicine can be unsafe for babies. Women should talk to their doctors before becoming pregnant or breastfeeding.

For best results with captopril, follow your doctor's advice for about diet, fluids and checking your own blood pressure.