Captopril, also known as Capoten, is an organic compound primarily used as an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor for the treatment of hypertension and certain types of congestive heart failure.

Basic Information

• Generic Name: Captopril

• Alternative Names: Capoten, Lopril, Tensomin, etc.

• Chemical Formula: C9H15NO3S

• Molecular Weight: 217.285 g/mol (or 217.29 g/mol, slight variations in sources)

• CAS Number: 62571-86-2

• EINECS Number: 263-607-1

Physical and Chemical Properties

• Appearance: White to off-white crystalline powder

• Density: 1.272 g/cm³

• Melting Point: 104-108°C (or 104-110°C, slight variations in sources)

• Boiling Point: 427°C

• Flash Point: 212.1°C

• Solubility: Soluble in water, ethanol, and chloroform

Pharmacological Action

Captopril works by inhibiting the activity of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), preventing the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, which is a potent vasoconstrictor and stimulates aldosterone release from the adrenal cortex. This leads to a reduction in blood pressure and also improves cardiac function in patients with congestive heart failure by decreasing cardiac afterload and preload, increasing cardiac output, and reducing aldosterone secretion, which facilitates sodium excretion and fluid volume reduction.

Clinical Applications

• Hypertension: Captopril is indicated for the treatment of mild to moderate hypertension and as an adjunctive therapy in severe hypertension.

• Congestive Heart Failure: It improves cardiac function and quality of life in patients with congestive heart failure.

In summary, Captopril is an effective ACE inhibitor that plays a crucial role in the management of hypertension and congestive heart failure.