Medications and Drugs
Pharmacy Editor: Jay W. Marks, MD
GENERIC NAME: enalapril
BRAND NAME: Vasotec
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Enalapril is a drug that is used for
treating high blood pressure. It is in a class of drugs called angiotensin
converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. ACE is an enzyme in the body that causes the
formation of angiotensin II. Angiotensin II causes the arteries in the body to
narrow, thereby elevating blood pressure. ACE inhibitors, such as enalapril,
lower blood pressure by preventing the formation of angiotensin II thereby
relaxing the arteries. ACE inhibitors also improve the effectiveness of the
heart in patients with heart failure by reducing the blood pressure that the
heart must maintain. Enalapril was approved by the FDA in December, 1985.
PRESCRIPTION: Yes
GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes
PREPARATIONS: Tablets: 2.5, 5, 10, and 20 mg. Injection: 1.25 mg/mL
STORAGE: Store below 30°C (86°F).
PRESCRIBED FOR: Enalapril is used alone or in combination with other
drugs to treat high blood pressure or congestive heart failure. After a heart
attack, enalapril has been found to be effective in improving function of the
damaged heart and in reducing symptoms and hospitalizations related to heart
failure.
DOSING: The usual oral dose for treating high blood pressure is 2.5-40
mg once daily. It may also be administered twice daily. The dose for treating
heart failure is 2.5-20 mg given twice daily. The usual intravenous dose is 1.25
mg every 6 hours.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Enalapril may increase potassium levels
(hyperkalemia) in blood. Therefore, there is an increased risk of hyperkalemia
when enalapril is given with potassium supplements or drugs that increase
potassium levels (e.g., spironolactone).
Nitritoid reactions (symptoms
includie facial flushing, nausea, vomiting and hypotension) may occur when
injectable gold (sodium aurothiomalate), used in the treatment of rheumatoid
arthritis, is combined with ACE inhibitors, including enalapril.
PREGNANCY: ACE inhibitors, including enalapril, can be harmful to the
fetus and should not be taken by pregnant women.
NURSING MOTHERS: ACE inhibitors, including enalapril, should be
avoided in nursing mothers.
SIDE EFFECTS: Enalapril is generally well tolerated, and side effects
usually are mild and transient. A dry, persistent cough has been reported with
the use of ACE inhibitors. Coughing resolves after discontinuing the medication.
Other side effects include abdominal pain, diarrhea, dizziness, fatigue,
headache, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, chest pain, dizziness or
fainting, numbness or tingling in the hands or feet, rash, and a sore or swollen
throat. In rare instances, liver dysfunction and skin yellowing (jaundice) have
been reported with ACE inhibitors. In susceptible individuals ACE inhibitors may
reduce kidney function.
Reference: FDA Prescribing Information
Last Editorial Review: 12/13/2005
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- ACE Inhibitors - Read about ACE inhibitors like Altace, lisinopril, enalapril, ramparil, Zestril and more. Information includes side effects, drug interactions, and pregnancy safety information.
- Kidney Failure - Learn about kidney failure, in which the body has fluid retention, risen blood pressure, toxin build up and lack of red blood cells. Symptoms include fatigue, nausea, and apetite loss.
- Drug Interactions - Learn about potential drug interactions you may be exposed to. Drug interactions can occur with prescription drugs, OTC medication, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
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