What is Enalapril?
Enalapril is a prescription drug used to treat elevated blood pressure (hypertension), left ventricular dysfunction, and symptoms of congestive heart failure. It belongs to the ACE Inhibitor family of drugs and works by preventing the development of angiotensin II, which relaxes the arteries, reducing blood pressure and making it easier for the heart to pump blood. The FDA approved enalapril in December 1985.
Enalapril Uses
Enalapril is used to:
- Control high blood pressure (alone or with other drugs)
- Treat heart failure (in conjunction with other drugs)
By lowering certain chemicals that tighten blood vessels, enalapril allows blood to circulate more freely and the heart to pump more efficiently. This helps prevent damage to vital organs and reduces the risk of serious health issues like heart disease, heart attack, stroke, renal failure, and vision loss.
Secure your health with a second opinion. Make informed decisions and book your appointment today!
Get A Second OpinionEnalapril Side Effects
Common Side Effects:
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Skin rash
- Cough
Serious Side Effects:
- Breathing problems
- Tightness in the chest
- Liver problems (yellowing of the skin)
- Kidney problems (inability to pass urine, blood in urine)
- High potassium levels
- Weight gain
- Lightheadedness
- Numbness
- Shortness of breath
- Irregular heartbeat
If you experience symptoms of infection such as persistent sore throat, cough, fever, chills, night sweats, difficulty breathing, painful or repeated urination, irregular vaginal discharge, or white patches in your mouth, contact your doctor immediately.
Precautions
Before taking enalapril, inform your doctor if you:
- Are allergic to enalapril or other medications
- Have a history of allergic reactions, swelling of the face, blood filtering procedures, or high potassium levels in the blood
How to Take Enalapril
Enalapril is available in immediate and extended-release (long-acting) tablets. It is taken once or twice a day, with or without food.
Dosage Forms and Strengths:
- Brand: Vasotec
- Form: Oral tablet (2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg)
Dosage for High Blood Pressure:
- Adults (18 years and older): Starting dosage is 5 mg once per day.
Dosage for Heart Failure:
- Adults (18 years and older): Starting dosage is 2.5 mg taken by mouth.
Missed Dose:
If you miss a dose, skip it and resume your regular schedule. Do not double the dose. Set an alarm to remind you of your doses if you miss them frequently.
Overdose:
If you overdose, seek medical attention immediately as it can lead to a medical emergency.
Ready to take control of your health journey? Book your appointment now and start your path towards wellness today!
Book an AppointmentWarnings for Serious Health Conditions
Swelling: Do not take enalapril if you have a history of swelling all over your body.
Low Blood Pressure: Enalapril can lower blood pressure. If you have low blood pressure, inform your doctor for dosage adjustment, especially if you have heart or kidney disease, or diabetes.
Heart Problems: Use enalapril with caution if you have ischemic heart disease as it can make you more susceptible to low blood pressure.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Enalapril is generally not recommended during pregnancy but may be prescribed if the benefits outweigh the risks. Consult your doctor if you are trying to get pregnant, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
Storage
Store enalapril at room temperature (68ºF to 77ºF / 20ºC to 25ºC) away from heat, air, and light. Keep it out of reach of children.
Enalapril vs Telmisartan
| Enalapril | Telmisartan |
|---|---|
| Used to treat elevated blood pressure, left ventricular dysfunction, and congestive heart failure symptoms. | Used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, and diabetic kidney disease. |
| Belongs to ACE inhibitors class. | Belongs to angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) class. |
| Common side effects: dizziness, weakness, skin rash | Common side effects: changes in vision, dizziness, fast heartbeat, hives. |
