What is Enalapril?

Enalapril is a drug used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). It may be used alone or combined with other medications. High blood pressure can effect the heart and kidneys because it forces them to work harder. It can also increase the chance of having a heart attack.

According to the Mayo Clinic, enalapril works by blocking an enzyme in the body that helps produce a substance that will make blood vessels tighten. Therefore, blood vessels can relax and increase blood and oxygen to the heart.

When Would it be Prescribed?

• A doctor may prescribe enalapril for high blood pressure, congestive or chronic heart failure or chronic kidney failure. Diabetics may also take the drug to help prevent kidney failure. It may also be prescribed after a heart attack or if someone has been diagnosed with coronary artery disease.

Precautions

• While taking enalapril, there should be regular doctor's visits. If swelling begins in the eyes, face, arms, lips, legs or tongue, stop taking the medication and a physician should be consulted. Using enalapril while pregnant can harm the baby. The drug may also increase potassium in the blood, so salt substitutes containing potassium should not be used.

Common Side Effects

• Normal side effects while using enalapril include blurred vision, confusion, sweating, lightheadedness and extreme tiredness.

Less Common Side Effects

• Less common side effects that may occur while taking enalapril include diarrhea, nausea, chest pain, fainting, vomiting, sneezing and sore throat.

Drug Names

• Enalapril also goes by the brand name Vasotec in the United States.