Perindopril — NZ Medication Guide
📋 Reviewed by a Registered Pharmacist NZ — This information is for general educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
What is Perindopril?
Perindopril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor used for hypertension, heart failure, and reducing cardiovascular risk. This medication is commonly prescribed in New Zealand and is funded by Pharmac for hypertension and cardiovascular risk reduction.
What is Perindopril Used For?
Perindopril is prescribed for hypertension, stable coronary artery disease, chronic heart failure, and secondary prevention of cardiovascular events in patients with a history of myocardial infarction or stroke.
How Does Perindopril Work?
Perindopril is a prodrug converted to perindoprilat, which inhibits ACE — preventing conversion of angiotensin I to the vasoconstrictor angiotensin II. This leads to vasodilation, reduced blood pressure, and reduced cardiac preload and afterload. It also has renoprotective and endothelial-protective effects.
How to Take Perindopril
Taken once daily, preferably in the morning before food (food can reduce absorption slightly). Doses typically range from 2 mg to 8 mg daily. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, kidney function, and potassium is required.
Common Side Effects of Perindopril
- Persistent dry cough (common — affects 10–20% of patients)
- Dizziness or hypotension (especially with first dose)
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Elevated potassium
- Taste disturbance
Serious Side Effects — Seek Medical Attention
Contact your doctor or call 111 immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Angioedema (swelling of face, lips, tongue, throat — stop immediately and call 111)
- Acute kidney injury
- Severe hyperkalaemia
- Severe hypotension
Drug Interactions
Perindopril may interact with other medicines. Always inform your doctor and pharmacist of all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking. Key interactions include:
- Potassium-sparing diuretics and potassium supplements (hyperkalaemia)
- NSAIDs (reduced efficacy and renal risk)
- Lithium (increased lithium toxicity risk)
- ARBs and aliskiren (avoid dual renin-angiotensin blockade)
- Antidiabetics (enhanced glucose-lowering effect)
New Zealand Prescribing Information
Perindopril is funded by Pharmac and available as 2 mg, 4 mg, and 8 mg tablets. In New Zealand it is available as perindopril arginine (Coversyl®) and generic forms. Fixed-dose combination products with indapamide (Coversyl Plus®) or amlodipine are also available for patients requiring combination therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I miss a dose of perindopril?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose — in that case, skip the missed dose and continue your regular schedule. Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Can perindopril affect my kidneys?
ACE inhibitors like perindopril can affect kidney function, particularly in the first few weeks of treatment. Your doctor will monitor your creatinine and eGFR (kidney function markers) and potassium. A small rise in creatinine is often acceptable, but significant rises require dose review.
⚠️ Disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or a qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication. In New Zealand, medication availability and funding may vary — check with Pharmac or your pharmacist for the most current information.
Reviewed by a Registered Pharmacist NZ
References & Further Information
The following New Zealand and international resources were used to inform this page: