US Brand Name: {Vasotec} ({Enalapril})
Pharmacologic category: {Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors} Other medications in this category include: {Lisinopril} ({Prinivil}, {Zestril}), {Ramipril} ({Altace}), {Benazepril} ({Lotensin}), {Captopril} ({Capoten}), {Fosinopril} ({Monopril}), {Quinapril} ({Accupril}), {Perindopril} ({Aceon}), {Trandolapril} ({Mavik}), {Moexipril} ({Univasc})
Diseases Treated, Dosing, and Treatment Duration:
{Hypertension}: Initial dose of 5 mg once daily; maintenance dose of 10-40 mg/day, in 1 or 2 divided doses.
{Congestive heart failure}: Initial dose of 2.5 mg twice daily; maintenance dose of 20 mg/day, in 2 divided doses.
{Left ventricular dysfunction}: Initial dose of 2.5 mg twice daily; maintenance dose of 20 mg/day, in 2 divided doses.
{Diabetic nephropathy}: Initial dose of 5 mg once daily; maintenance dose of 10-40 mg/day, in 1 or 2 divided doses.
{Chronic kidney disease (CKD)}: Dosing depends on the severity of CKD and individual patient factors; consult healthcare professional.
{Asymptomatic left ventricular systolic dysfunction}: Initial dose of 2.5 mg twice daily; maintenance dose of 20 mg/day, in 2 divided doses.
{Coronary artery disease}: Dosing depends on the specific condition being treated and individual patient factors; consult healthcare professional.
{Prevention of heart failure after myocardial infarction}: Initial dose of 2.5 mg twice daily; maintenance dose of 20 mg/day, in 2 divided doses.
Dosage Forms and Strengths:
{Tablets}: 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg {Oral solution}: 1 mg/mL
Administration Instructions:
Take {Enalapril} with or without food. Follow the dosing schedule prescribed by the healthcare professional. If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible but do not double up on the next dose.
Adverse Reactions and Side Effects:
{Dizziness (common)}: A feeling of lightheadedness or unsteadiness. {Cough (common)}: Persistent dry cough. {Headache (common)}: Pain or discomfort in the head or scalp area. {Fatigue (common)}: A feeling of tiredness or weakness. {Hypotension (less common)}: Abnormally low blood pressure. {Hyperkalemia (less common)}: Elevated potassium levels in the blood. {Kidney problems (rare)}: Impaired kidney function or kidney failure. {Angioedema (rare)}: Swelling beneath the skin, often around the face and neck.
Contraindications:
History of angioedema related to previous ACE inhibitor therapy. Hypersensitivity to {Enalapril or any component of the formulation. Concurrent use with {aliskiren} in patients with diabetes.
Drug to Drug Interactions:
{Aliskiren (Tekturna)}: Increased risk of renal impairment, hyperkalemia, and hypotension. {Potassium-sparing diuretics} (e.g., {Spironolactone} [{Aldactone}]): Increased risk of hyperkalemia. {Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs} (e.g., {Ibuprofen} [{Advil}, {Motrin}]): Reduced antihypertensive effect and increased risk of kidney problems. {Lithium} ({Lithobid}, {Eskalith}): Increased risk of lithium toxicity. {Angiotensin II receptor blockers} (e.g., {Losartan} [{Cozaar}], {Valsartan} [{Diovan}]): Increased risk of renal impairment, hyperkalemia, and hypotension. {Sacubitril/valsartan} ({Entresto}): Increased risk of angioedema.
Pregnancy:
{Enalapril} is classified as a pregnancy category D drug, meaning it can cause harm to the fetus. It should not be used during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters, due to the risk of fetal injury and death. If pregnancy is detected, discontinue {Enalapril} as soon as possible.
Breastfeeding:
It is not known whether {Enalapril} passes into breast milk. However, it is advised to avoid using {Enalapril} while breastfeeding due to the potential for adverse effects on the nursing infant. Consult a healthcare professional for advice on alternative medications that are safe during breastfeeding.
Estimated Price for a 30-day Supply:
The estimated price for a 30-day supply of {Enalapril}, assuming the patient does not have insurance and is utilizing a {GoodRx} coupon, is around $10 to $20. Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on the specific dosage, location, and pharmacy. It is advisable to compare prices at different pharmacies to find the best deal.
Legal Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment. Reliance on the information provided here is at your own risk.