Enalapril

Enalapril Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Enalapril is a brand name. Its generic name is Enalapril.

Enalapril Introduction

Enalapril is an angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor medication used to treat high blood pressure and congestive heart failure. It works by decreasing certain chemicals that tighten the blood vessels which will then lower blood pressure and allows the heart to work efficiently.

Uses for Enalapril

Enalapril is used for treating hypertension (high blood pressure), congestive heart failure, and kidney diseases. It is also used to reduce the risk of death in patients who have had a heart attack.

Mechanism of Action

Enalapril blocks angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE). This enzyme helps the body produce a compound known as angiotensin II, which causes the blood vessels to narrow and raises blood pressure. By blocking ACE, enalapril relaxes the blood vessels, allowing for easier blood flow and lower blood pressure.

How Long Does It Take To Work?

Enalapril usually starts working within one or two hours. The full effects of the drug may take several weeks to become fully noticeable. Your doctor may increase your dose gradually over time to reach the most effective dose.

Absorption

Enalapril is rapidly and almost completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Peak plasma levels occur around 2 hours after taking a single dose.

Route of Elimination

Enalapril is eliminated from the body in the urine following metabolism in the liver. Approximately 75% of a single dose is excreted after 24 hours.

Dosage

The usual starting dose of Enalapril is 5-10 mg orally once a day. This dosage may be increased gradually over time as needed by your doctor.

• For the treatment of hypertension: the recommended dose is 10-40 mg once a day.
• For the treatment of congestive heart failure: the recommended dose is 5-20 mg twice daily.

Administration

Enalapril should be taken orally with or without food. It should be taken consistently either with food or without food as directed by your doctor.

Side Effects

Common side effects of enalapril include headache, nausea, diarrhea, rash, cough, and dizziness. Serious side effects may include angioedema, allergic reactions, and liver injury. If any of these side effects occur, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Toxicity

Overdose of enalapril may result in hypotension, tachycardia, and renal failure. If an overdose is suspected, contact a poison control center as soon as possible.

Precaution

Patients should not use enalapril if they have an allergy to ACE inhibitors or have a history of angioedema. Potential side effects include low blood pressure, decreased kidney function, and liver dysfunction. Patients should also be monitored for signs of angioedema, as serious anaphylactic reactions can occur.

Interaction

Enalapril can interact with certain medications, vitamins, supplements, and minerals; therefore, it is always important to tell your healthcare provider about any other drugs you may be taking.

Disease Interaction

Patients with a history of angioedema, kidney diseases, and liver diseases should not take enalapril.

Drug Interaction

Enalapril can interact with diuretics, potassium supplements, NSAIDs, and lithium. Alcohol can also increase the side effects of this medication.

Food Interactions

No food interactions have been reported with enalapril.

Pregnancy Use

Enalapril should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. It is not recommended for use in nursing mothers.

Lactation Use

It is not recommended for use in nursing mothers.

Acute Overdose

Acute overdose of enalapril can result in hypotension, tachycardia, and renal failure. If an overdose is suspected, contact a poison control center as soon as possible.

Contraindications

Enalapril is contraindicated in patients who have a history of angioedema, kidney diseases, liver diseases, and allergies to ACE inhibitors.

Use Direction

Enalapril should be taken orally with or without food as directed by your doctor. It may take several weeks for the full effects to be noticed.

Storage Condition

Store the medication at room temperature, away from heat and moisture.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution for enalapril is 8.5 L/kg.

Half Life

The half-life of enalapril is 2-4 hours.

Clearance

The clearance of enalapril is 5.5 mL/min/kg.

Here you find in details version of Enalapril

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Enalapril

What is Enalapril?

Enalapril is a prescription medication used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It belongs to a group of medications called ACE inhibitors, which work by relaxing the muscles in your blood vessels, allowing them to widen and reduce the pressure on your arteries, heart, and other organs.

How long does Enalapril take to work?

Enalapril typically takes effect within two to four weeks after it is started, and the full effect may take up to eight weeks.

What are the side effects of Enalapril?

The most common side effects of Enalapril include headache, dizziness, nausea, diarrhea, muscle or joint pain, and fatigue. If you experience any serious side effects, such as fainting, chest pain, or difficulty breathing, you should seek immediate medical attention.

When should I take Enalapril?

Enalapril should be taken exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. In general, it is best taken in the morning with or without food. Be sure to take it at the same time each day.

What dose of Enalapril is right for me?

The optimal dose of Enalapril will vary from person to person, and is determined by your healthcare provider based on your medical history and other medications you are taking. Do not adjust your dose without talking to your provider first.

Should I take Enalapril if my blood pressure is already low?

No, if your blood pressure is low then Enalapril is not recommended. Be sure to talk to your doctor before taking any medication.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Enalapril?

It is generally not recommended to drink alcohol while on Enalapril due to the risk of further lowering your blood pressure. Check with your doctor before consuming alcohol while taking this medication.

Can I take other medications with Enalapril?

It is important to tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking, as some medications can interact with Enalapril. Make sure to mention any drugs you are taking to prevent excessive low blood pressure.

Does Enalapril cause weight gain?

Enalapril is not known to have any direct correlation with weight gain. If you do experience weight gain or changes in appetite while taking this medication, let your doctor know.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Enalapril?

If you forget to take your dose of Enalapril, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the time of your next dose. In this case, skip the missed dose and continue with your usual dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose of the medication to make up for the missed dose.

Should I discontinue Enalapril if I become pregnant?

Yes, if you become pregnant you should notify your doctor and discontinue use of Enalapril. Your doctor can prescribe a safe alternative medication to manage your blood pressure during pregnancy.

How do I store Enalapril?

Enalapril should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep it out of reach of children and pets. Do not use Enalapril after the expiration date on the bottle.

Can I take Enalapril if I have kidney or liver disease?

It is generally not recommended if you have kidney or liver disease. Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any prescription medications.

Can I buy Enalapril over the counter?

No, Enalapril is a prescription medication and can only be purchased with a valid prescription from a doctor.

Does Enalapril interact with other medications?

Yes, Enalapril may interact with certain types of medications. Make sure to tell your doctor all the medications and supplements you are taking to avoid dangerous interactions.

Can I take Enalapril if I have diabetes?

Yes, Enalapril can be taken safely by people with diabetes. Make sure to tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have diabetes or any other medical condition.

Can I take Enalapril while breastfeeding?

Yes, Enalapril can be taken while breastfeeding. However, it is important to tell your doctor to make sure this is the best option for you and your baby.

Can Enalapril cause dizziness?

Yes, dizziness is a common side effect of Enalapril. If this is a problem for you, be sure to talk to your doctor or pharmacist to find a safe alternative.

Does Enalapril cause dry cough?

Yes, dry cough is a common side effect of Enalapril. If this is a problem, be sure to talk to your doctor or pharmacist to find a safe alternative.

Can I take Enalapril with other high blood pressure medications?

Yes, Enalapril can be taken with other high blood pressure medications. However, it is important to tell your doctor or pharmacist all medications and supplements you are taking to avoid dangerous interactions.

Can I take Enalapril if I'm pregnant or planning to become pregnant?

No, Enalapril is not recommended for pregnant women, as it can be harmful to the unborn baby. If you become pregnant while taking Enalapril, contact your doctor immediately.

What should people who are taking Enalapril watch out for?

People taking Enalapril should be aware of the potential side effects, which may include headaches, dizziness, and fatigue. If you experience any serious side effects such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or fainting, contact your doctor right away.

Can I take ibuprofen with Enalapril?

It is generally not recommended to take ibuprofen with Enalapril. Check with your doctor or pharmacist about any other medications or supplements you are taking before taking ibuprofen.

Is there a generic version of Enalapril?

Yes, there is a generic version of Enalapril available, called enalapril maleate. Make sure to ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

How long will I need to take Enalapril?

The length of time you need to take Enalapril will depend on the condition being treated, as well as your individual response. Talk to your doctor about the best course of treatment for you.

Can I take Enalapril if I am allergic to sulfa drugs?

If you are allergic to sulfa drugs, then you should not take Enalapril. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about other options to manage your blood pressure.

What should I do if I have an allergic reaction to Enalapril?

If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction to Enalapril, such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat, you should seek medical attention right away.

Can I take aspirin with Enalapril?

Yes, aspirin is generally safe to take with Enalapril. However, make sure to discuss all of the medications and supplements you are taking with your doctor or pharmacist to avoid dangerous interactions.

Is Enalapril safe for long-term use?

Yes, Enalapril is generally safe for long-term use. Make sure to talk to your doctor or pharmacist about any potential side effects or interactions with other medications.

Can I take Enalapril with other blood pressure medications?

Yes, Enalapril can be taken with other blood pressure medications. Be sure to tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medications and supplements you are taking.

Can I take Enalapril if I have a history of heart disease?

Yes, Enalapril can be taken safely by people with a history of heart disease. Make sure to talk to your doctor or pharmacist about all medications and supplements you are taking to avoid any dangerous interactions.

Can I take Enalapril with other antihypertensive medications?

Yes, Enalapril can be taken with other antihypertensive medications. It is important to tell your doctor or pharmacist of all medications and supplements you are taking to avoid any dangerous interactions.

Will I need regular blood tests while taking Enalapril?

It is generally recommended that people taking Enalapril have regular blood tests to monitor their response to the medication. Your doctor will determine the frequency and type of tests that are necessary.

Are there any dietary restrictions while taking Enalapril?

No, there are no specific dietary restrictions associated with taking Enalapril. However, it is always a good idea to maintain a healthy, balanced diet to manage your symptoms.

Are there any natural alternatives to Enalapril?

Yes, there are some natural alternatives to Enalapril such as wild yam root, hawthorn, and garlic. Talk to your doctor or a certified herbalist about other natural alternatives to Enalapril that may work for you.

Is there a way to reduce the side effects of Enalapril?

Yes, the side effects of Enalapril can be minimized by taking the medication with food or milk, drinking plenty of fluids, and avoiding activities that could exacerbate the side effects, such as driving or operating heavy machinery.

Can I take Enalapril if I have a history of stroke?

Yes, Enalapril can be taken safely by people with a history of stroke. Make sure to tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medications and supplements you are taking, as some may interact with Enalapril.

Is Enalapril safe for children?

No, Enalapril is not recommended for children as it has not been studied in pediatric populations. It should only be used in children if deemed absolutely necessary by a doctor.

Can I take Enalapril with vitamins or supplements?

Yes, it is generally safe to take Enalapril with vitamins or supplements. However, it is important to tell your doctor or pharmacist of all medications and supplements you are taking to avoid any dangerous interactions.