Enalapril is a medication that is principally used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and congestive heart failure. Enalapril is also used to treat a disorder of the ventricles. It is in a class of medications called angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It works by decreasing certain chemicals that tighten the blood vessels, so blood flows more smoothly and the heart can pump blood more efficiently.
Before taking Enalapril
Tell your doctor if you have a history of blood clot or stroke.
Tell your doctor if you have liver disease or a history of heart disease.
Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to Enalapril or any other drugs.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding.
Tell your doctor if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking Enalapril.
Enalapril Side Effects
If you have any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- Cough
- Trouble breathing
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Feeling weak
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Fever
- Weight gain
- Dry mouth
- Diarrhea
- Bloating
- Confusion
- Loss of appetite
- Sleep problems (insomnia)
- Muscle weakness
- Slow or uneven heart rate
- Chest pain
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. Overdose symptoms may include feeling extremely dizzy or light-headed, or fainting.
What other information should I know?
This list is not complete and there may be other drugs that can interact with enalapril. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.
If these side effects continue, people should speak to their physicians, as it is possible another ACE inhibitor or a different type of blood pressure medicine is more appropriate.
