Bifril Plus Film Coated Tablet Tablet (Zofenopril calcium; Hydrochlorothiazide) — Uses, Dosage & NAFDAC

Who is this for?

What is this drug?

This is a combination medicine containing two active ingredients — zofenopril (which relaxes blood vessels) and hydrochlorothiazide (a 'water tablet' that helps your body remove excess water and salt through urine). Together, they work to lower high blood pressure more effectively than either one alone.

What is it used for?

High blood pressure (hypertension) that is not well controlled by one medicine alone

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High Blood Pressure

How it works

Inhibits angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), reducing angiotensin II formation and decreasing vasoconstriction and aldosterone secretion, while hydrochlorothiazide inhibits sodium reabsorption in the distal convoluted tubule, promoting natriuresis and reducing blood volume and peripheral vascular resistance.

Prescription Required

You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.

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How to take this drug

Usually one tablet taken once daily, in the morning, with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Your doctor will decide the right strength for you based on how your blood pressure responds. Do not crush or chew the tablet.

What if I Miss a Dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Do not take two tablets at once to make up for the missed dose.

What to watch out for

This is a prescription medicine — only use it as directed by your doctor. Do not buy from roadside vendors or unregistered sellers; purchase only from licensed pharmacies (the Nigerian brand is Bifril Plus). Do not share this medicine with anyone else, even if they also have high blood pressure, as the dose must be individually adjusted by a doctor.

Common Side Effects

Dry cough (very common with this type of medicine)
dizziness or light-headedness especially when standing up quickly
feeling tired or weak
headache
passing more urine than usual

Serious Side Effects

Swelling of the face
lips
tongue
or throat that makes it hard to breathe (this is an emergency — go to the hospital immediately)
severe dizziness or fainting
signs of kidney problems like very little urine output or swelling in your legs and feet

Drug Interactions

Do not take with potassium supplements or potassium-sparing medicines (like spironolactone) as it can cause dangerously high potassium levels. NSAIDs like ibuprofen (common painkillers sold in Nigerian pharmacies) can reduce how well this medicine works and harm your kidneys. Avoid alcohol as it can worsen the dizziness and blood pressure drop.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

This medicine is NOT safe during pregnancy — it can cause serious harm or death to your unborn baby, especially in the second and third trimesters. It is also not recommended while breastfeeding. Tell your doctor immediately if you become pregnant.

Who Should NOT Take This

People allergic to zofenopril
hydrochlorothiazide
sulfonamides
or any ACE inhibitor. People who have had swelling of the face or throat (angioedema) before. People with severe kidney or liver disease. Pregnant women. Diabetics or people with kidney problems already taking aliskiren. People with very low blood pressure.

How to Store

Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity — Nigerian heat can damage this medicine. Keep it in its original packaging and always out of the reach of children.

For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.

Bifril Plus Film Coated Tablet