Captopril works by opening your blood vessels. This allows blood to flow more easily and decreases how hard your heart has to pump. These effects lower your blood pressure levels, improve your heart's ability to pump blood, and improve blood flow in your kidneys.

What does captopril do to the heart?

Captopril is in a class of medications called angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It decreases certain chemicals that tighten the blood vessels, so blood flows more smoothly and the heart can pump blood more efficiently.

How long does capoten take to work?

For the treatment of high blood pressure, it may take up to 2 weeks before you get the full benefit of this medication. For the treatment of heart failure, it may take weeks to months before you get the full benefit of this medication.