Dr Frank or any other medical expert!; what's the best way to alleviate coughing fits and dizziness caused by

Question

Aprovel?

My mother-in-law was prescribed Ramipril for blood pressure, she had coughing fits even after laying off them for a couple of days; the doctor suggested changing to Aprovel but the coughing and dizziness have continued.

Answer 1

Unfortunately, the OTC cough suppressants are not very effective. We have a couple of small, slightly positive studies that show effectiveness with dextromethorphan and codeine, but there is a big recent study that shows no benefit, especially in children. It is probably not worth confusing things by trying to add a cough suppressant, especially since they probably don't work. Don't expect too much from any of them.

If you have cough that is keeping you awake at night, or comes in long spurts that wear you out, codeine is probably your best bet. You can get codeine containing cough medicine "OTC" by speaking with the pharmacist. Tell them about your cough, and ask for a small amount of Robitussin - AC or a generic form of it. It's the pharmacists decision as to whether to "prescribe" it and he will tell you the dosage.

Dextromethorphan in pill or syrup form seems to help some people. Dextromethorphan has significant side effects, especially in the elderly, of confusion and dizziness.

For dizziness; you have to etermine its cause and remove them.These are some causes of dizziness:

motion sicknes,middle ear infections; post nasal drips, sinus congestions or sinusitis ; BPV-benign positional vertigo when you move your head suddenly, labyrinthithis; allergies and GAD (Generalized anxiety disorder

Anxiety and stress often cause dizziness, you need to learn new ways of relaxing and calming yourself- such as meditation and yoga and acupuncture.

A medication good for GAD is Zoloft.  

Answer 2

If your mother-in-law is still having coughing fits and dizziness after stopping Ramipril it may be that the coughing and dizziness is unrelated to the medication, there could be another cause. I would recommend your mother-in-law going back to her GP and explain that she's still symptomatic.

Answer 3

Would it not be best to consult the medical expert who prescribed the original medication. They will know your mother in laws medical background better that a stranger.