zuzu8

Paul,

2mg is the lowest available dose for perindopril. You're doctor is wise to start you off on a low dose. (By the way, you can't compare mgs between different drugs..it's like trying to compare apples and oranges!). But don't be alarmed or concerned if this low dose doesn't quite do the trick and the doc wants to up it to 4mg or more. Some people take up to 16mgs.

I've checked the pharmaceutical monograph for this drug and alcohol in moderation is fine. Caution is advised only because alcohol by itself can lower blood pressure. In combo with any anti-hypertensive med, BP might, in some people, go a bit too low and cause some dizziness. Not dangerous. But it's just exactly what you read... a "precaution". You don't have to tee-total.

Regarding potassium levels, in clinical trials, a very tiny minority of people have shown increased blood potassium levels on ACEs. This is called hyperkalemia.
Most cases were isolated single values that were not necessarily relevant and were rarely a cause for withdrawal.

The only thing I would suggest is not to use potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium without checking with your doctor.

And after a month or so, your doc will probably want to run a routine blood test anyway, just to make sure everything is A-Okay.

Good luck!

zuzu xx