Uses of Enalapril

Enalapril is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) and improves heart functions.

Therapeutic Category

Enalapril: Antihypertensive agents

How Enalapril works

Enalapril is an antihypertensive agent. It works by blocking the actions of an enzyme called angiotensin-converting enzyme, that causes narrowing of blood vessels and increase in blood pressure. This results in widening of blood vessels supplying the various vital organs (such as heart, brain or kidneys) and helps the heart to pump blood more smoothly with less pressure. It also improves blood flow and oxygen supply to the heart muscles which reduces strain on the heart and improves heart functions.

Common side effects of Enalapril

• dizziness, headache
• low blood pressure causing light-headedness
• weakness, fainting, tiredness
• nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain
• cough
• changes in taste
• blurred vision
• depression
• heart rhythm changes
• increased potassium levels in blood

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor if you experience:

• sever stomach pain due to obstruction of the gut or inflammation of pancreas
• dizziness, fainting or light-headedness, excessive sweating following an exercise or after regular activities (signs of low RBC count in blood)
• chest pain, shortness of breath (signs of fluid buildup in lungs)
• signs of liver problems (such as fever, muscle pain, rashes, itching, stomach pain, diarrhea, discoloration of eyes, skin and urine)
• increased bleeding or bruising

Health Tips for Enalapril

• Enalapril can be taken with or without meals. Strictly follow the dosing schedule as instructed by your doctor to achieve better results
• Along with the treatment, follow the diet and lifestyle changes as advised by your physician
• Enalapril may cause dizziness while standing up suddenly or while changing positions, especially during the initial days of the therapy. Therefore, do not drive or operate any heavy tools or machines as a precaution. Also, avoid consumption of alcohol as it could aggravate your dizziness
• Before taking enalapril inform your doctor if you have any liver, kidney, or heart problems (other than hypertension and heart failure). You must also inform your doctor if you are on a low salt diet or have diabetes or are severely dehydrated due to any recent sickness (such as vomiting or diarrhea)
• Enalapril is not recommended for use women who are pregnant or breastfeeding due to increased risk of side effects