Molecular Formula
C25H31ClN2O5
Smiles
CCOC(=O)[C@H](CCC1=CC=CC=C1)N[C@@H](C)C(=O)N2CC3=CC=CC=C3C[C@H]2C(=O)O.Cl
Appearance
White crystalline powder
General Description
Quinapril hydrochloride is the hydrochloride salt of quinapril, a non-sulfhydryl angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor prodrug. It appears as a white to off-white amorphous powder that is freely soluble in aqueous solvents and is formulated into oral tablets for once or twice daily administration.
Mechanism of Action
Following oral absorption, quinapril hydrochloride undergoes rapid deesterification in the liver to its principal active metabolite, quinaprilat. Quinaprilat inhibits ACE activity, thereby blocking the conversion of angiotensin I to the potent vasoconstrictor angiotensin II and reducing aldosterone secretion.
Application
Quinapril hydrochloride is indicated for the treatment of hypertension, where it may be used alone or in combination with thiazide diuretics. It is also indicated as adjunctive therapy in the management of heart failure, typically administered concomitantly with diuretics and/or cardiac glycosides. Dosing range for hypertension is 10-40 mg once daily, with twice daily dosing of 10-20 mg employed for heart failure management.
Wojewodzka-Zelezniakowicz M, et al. investigated the interactive effects of the ACE inhibitor quinapril and the anesthetic propofol on hemodynamics and hemostasis in renal-hypertensive rats with induced arterial thrombosis. Quinapril pretreatment (3.0 mg/kg for 10 days) demonstrated antithrombotic effects, reducing platelet adhesion, enhancing fibrinolysis, and decreasing oxidative stress. While propofol infusion alone did not influence thrombosis, it inhibited fibrinolysis and exhibited pro-oxidative effects. However, these adverse effects of propofol were significantly attenuated in quinapril-pretreated rats.
Fig. 1 Changes in the carotid blood flow with the values of initial (T0) and final (T100) carotid blood flow. (Wojewodzka-Zelezniakowicz M, et al., 2016)
References
- Wojewodzka-Zelezniakowicz M, et al. Quinapril decreases antifibrinolytic and prooxidative potential of propofol in arterial thrombosis in hypertensive rats. J Renin Angiotensin Aldosterone Syst. 2016;17(2):1470320316647239.
Is Quinapril Hydrochloride susceptible to cyclization during storage?
Yes, as an ACE inhibitor, it can undergo cyclization to form a diketopiperazine impurity. Storage at controlled room temperature (15-25°C) in a tightly sealed container minimizes this risk.
Does exposure to high humidity accelerate the degradation of Quinapril Hydrochloride?
Absolutely. It is moderately hygroscopic, and moisture uptake can catalyze hydrolysis. We recommend storing it in its original moisture-barrier packaging with desiccant.
What is the primary degradation product monitored during stability testing?
We specifically monitor for the diketopiperazine derivative using a stability-indicating HPLC method, ensuring it remains well below the pharmacopoeial limit throughout the shelf life.
Can Quinapril Hydrochloride be shipped without refrigeration during summer months?
Yes, it is stable at ambient temperatures. However, for extended transit through extreme heat zones, we offer insulated packaging to prevent any thermal stress.