Uses of Enalapril+Hydrochlorothiazide

The combination of Enalapril and Hydrochlorothiazide is used in the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure). It is typically used in patients who have not responded adequately to therapy with either of the single agents. 

Therapeutic Category

Enalapril: Antihypertensive agents (Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors)

Hydrochlorothiazide: Diuretics (Thiazide-type diuretics) 

How Enalapril+Hydrochlorothiazide works

Enalapril + Hydrochlorothiazide relaxes the blood vessels and improves blood flow across them. It also reduces thickness of the blood by removing excess fluids from the body in the form of urine. Collectively, these actions reduce the strain on the heart and helps the heart to pump blood more smoothly with less pressure.               

Common side effects of Enalapril+Hydrochlorothiazide

• headache, dizziness
• nausea, stomach pain, diarrhea
• blurred vision
• weakness, tiredness
• low blood pressure, feeling faint
• heart rhythm changes (fast or slow)
• skin rash
• muscle cramps

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor:

• In case of accidental overdosage
• If you experience eye pain, decrease in vision
• If you experience skin lesions
• If you experience severe allergic reactions like angioedema (such as rash, swelling of the face, lips, mouth, throat or airways which can lead to difficulty in breathing or swallowing)
• If you experience chest pain or tightness
• If you experience severe dizziness or feeling faint while standing up suddenly
• If you experience inflammation of pancreas (causing severe stomach pain that radiates to the back side of the body)
• If you experience signs of block in the gut (such as severe stomach pain, constipation with stomach discomfort or bloating, nausea and vomiting)
• If you experience signs of kidney problems (such as passing no urine or little urine, bloody urine, changes in urine color, lowe back pain, nausea, vomiting, tiredness)
• If you experience signs of low blood count (such as tiredness, pale skin, increased infections, breathing difficulties, fever, chills, sore throat, mouth ulcers, unusual bleeding or bruising)
• If you experience severe skin reactions (such as skin rash with itching and redness, blistering and peeling of skin, skin swelling and inflammation of mucous membrane)
• If you experience signs of liver problems (such as fever, muscle pain, rashes, itching, stomach pain, diarrhea, discoloration of eyes, skin and urine)

Health Tips for Enalapril+Hydrochlorothiazide

• Reduce your intake of high-sodium items including processed foods, fast food and salty snacks. Lowering sodium intake can help reduce blood pressure. Cut back on processed and high-sugar foods, as they can contribute to weight gain and high blood pressure
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Proper hydration is essential for overall health and blood pressure control
• Exercise on a regular basis can help decrease blood pressure and enhance cardiovascular health. As prescribed by your doctor, aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity every week
• If you are overweight, decreasing weight can improve your blood pressure control substantially. A healthy weight improves general well-being
• Avoid drinking alcohol as it can affect the blood pressure and interact with your medications
• Use stress-relieving strategies such as meditation and deep breathing exercises. Stress reduction can improve blood pressure levels
• Monitor your blood pressure on a regular basis, as directed by your doctor. Keeping track of your blood pressure levels assists you and your doctor in determining the efficacy of the treatment
• Take Enalapril + Hydrochlorothiazide exactly as directed by your doctor. Follow the specified dosage and regimen. Do not change the dosage or discontinue the medicine without first consulting your doctor