Enalapril
Information about Enalapril
Enalapril uses
Enalapril is used in the treatment of Hypertension (high blood pressure), prevention of heart attack and stroke and Heart failure.
How enalapril works
Enalapril is an angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. It works by reducing stress on the heart and relaxing blood vessel so that blood flows more smoothly and the heart can pump blood more efficiently.
Common side effects of enalapril
Cough, Dizziness, Fatigue, Increased potassium level in blood, Hypotension (low blood pressure), Blurred vision, Headache, Muscle cramp, Paresthesia (tingling or pricking sensation), Liver dysfunction, Anaphylactic reaction, Decreased white blood cell count (neutrophils), Agranulocytosis (deficiency of granulocytes in the blood), Angioedema (swelling of deeper layers of skin)
Available Medicine for Enalapril
Expert advice for Enalapril
- It should be taken with or without food, preferably at the same time each day.
- Enalapril can make you feel dizzy for the first few days, so rise slowly if you have been sitting or lying down. You can also prefer taking it at bedtime to avoid dizziness throughout the day.
- Let your doctor know about any cough, or throat irritation that does not go away.
- It may increase the level of potassium in blood. Avoid taking potassium supplements and potassium-rich foods such as banana and broccoli.
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Frequently asked questions for Enalapril
Enalapril
Q. What is Enalapril? What is it used for?
Enalapril belongs to a group of medicines known as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It relaxes and widens the blood vessels, making it easier for the blood to pass through the vessels. As a result of this, the heart does not have to work more to push the blood. Since the workload on the heart is reduced, it helps to lower the blood pressure and thus reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke. It is also used for the treatment and prevention of congestive heart failure.
Q. Does Enalapril cause excessive urination? Can it cause kidney damage?
No, Enalapril does not cause excessive urination (loss of water through urine). The use of Enalapril may not affect normally functioning kidneys. However, damage to the kidneys may occur when Enalapril is given with a diuretic (water pill, a medicine that increases the urine output). In such a case, either the diuretic should be discontinued or its dose should be reduced. If you have severe heart failure or your kidneys are already affected then there is a risk of kidney failure. However, timely and appropriate treatment can reverse the damage caused to kidneys.
Q. Can use of Enalapril affect my liver?
In rare cases, Enalapril may cause yellowing of skin and eyes, loss of appetite and an increase in liver enzymes. It can also cause considerable damage to the liver and even death. Therefore, if you experience any such symptoms, call your doctor immediately.