Drug Interaction Report

Calcium channel blockers and angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors may have additive hypotensive effects. While these drugs are often safely used together, careful monitoring of the systemic blood pressure is recommended during coadministration, especially during the first one to three weeks of therapy.

GENERALLY AVOID: Moderate-to-high dietary intake of potassium can cause hyperkalemia in some patients who are using angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. In some cases, affected patients were using a potassium-rich salt substitute. ACE inhibitors can promote hyperkalemia through inhibition of the renin-aldosterone-angiotensin (RAA) system.

MANAGEMENT: It is recommended that patients who are taking ACE inhibitors be advised to avoid moderately high or high potassium dietary intake. Particular attention should be paid to the potassium content of salt substitutes.