General Information
Uses
What should I know before taking this drug
Precautions
Dosage information
Adverse reactions
Storage
Additional information if any
Type: OTC/Prescription/schedule
Enalapril is prescription drug. It is sold from the pharmacy store only in the presence of written instructions known as prescription from a licensed healthcare provider
Common uses of enalapril
Enalapril is used in the treatment of hypertension, heart failure. Captopril is also used in the treatment of kidney problems due to diabetes (Diabetes nephropathy)
When not to take enalapril
Do not take enalapril if you are hypersensitive to it or any other angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor.
Do not take enalapril if you have history of angioedema (Difficult in breathing, swelling of face, throat, and tongue)
Do not take enalapril in pregnancy (Refer precautions below for more details)
Children:
It is safe to use as antihypertensive in children age 1 month to 16 years.
Old people:
Pregnant woman:
First rimester: Enalapril belongs to FDA pregnancy category C. This means that enalapril may harm an unborn baby if used during pregnancy but potential benefit may warrant use of the drug in pregnant woman despite potential risks. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or are planning for conception.
Second and third trimester: Enalapril belongs to FDA pregnancy category D. This means that enalapril can harm an unborn baby and cause birth defects if used during pregnancy. Do not use enalapril with out your doctor consent however its use is justified if the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or are planning for conception.
Lactating women:
Enalapril passes into breast milk and harm nursing baby. Do not use enalapril with out the consent from your doctor if you are breastfeeding your child.
Other:
Doses for enalapril
For hypertension in adults: Initial dose is 5mg per day. Maintenance dose is 10 to 20mg and after few days maximum daily dose is 40 mg in divided doses.
For heart failure in adults: 2.5 mg per day. Maintenance dose is 20mg and after few days maximum daily dose is 40 mg in divided doses.
Over dosage symptoms are
Side effects for enalapril are
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Dry cough
If you notice any of the below side effects temporarily stop the drug and consult your doctor immediately
- Fainting
- Fever
- Sever sore throat
- Dark color urine
- Stomach pain
- Yellowing of skin and eyes
Store enalapril at room temp (25 degrees C / 77 degrees F). Avoid excessive heat, moisture or direct sunlight, never store in the bathroom.
Keep it out of reach of children. Make sure that any left over portion is disposed off safely.