Vasotec
Generic Name: Enalapril
What is Vasotec?
Vasotec is a type of blood pressure-lowering medication known as an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. Vasotec is used alone or in combination with other medications to treat high blood pressure and to manage heart failure or prevent certain conditions that could lead to heart failure.What is the most important information I should know about Vasotec?
Vasotec may cause injury or death to an unborn baby if taken after the third month of pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant while taking Vasotec, stop taking Vasotec immediately and tell your doctor right away.If you have high blood pressure, you must take Vasotec regularly for it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may be several weeks before you get the full benefit of Vasotec; you must continue taking it even if you are feeling well. Vasotec does not cure high blood pressure; it merely keeps it under control.
Vasotec can cause a rare but serious allergic reaction leading to extreme swelling of the face, lips, tongue, throat, or gut (causing severe abdominal pain). You may have an increased risk of experiencing these symptoms if you have ever had an allergy to ACE inhibitor-type medicines or if you are African American. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek emergency medical attention right away.
Vasotec may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting, especially upon standing from a lying or sitting position during the first few days of therapy. Avoid standing or sitting up too quickly. These effects may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines and can be exacerbated by dehydration, excessive sweating, vomiting, or diarrhea. Contact your doctor at once if any of these occur.
Vasotec may decrease your blood levels of infection-fighting white blood cells, especially if you have lupus or kidney disease. If you have these diseases, your doctor will most likely monitor you closely by taking regular blood samples. If you get any type of infection (such as sore throat, fever) while taking Vasotec, report it to your doctor right away. Avoid contact with people who have colds or infections.
Vasotec may rarely cause yellowing of the skin or eyes, which can be a sign of liver injury. If this occurs tell your doctor immediately.
Tell your doctor or dentist that you take Vasotec before you receive any medical or dental care, emergency care, or surgery.
Who should not take Vasotec?
Do not take Vasotec if you have had a previous allergic reaction or are sensitive to Vasotec or any other ACE inhibitor, or if you have a history of angioedema (swelling of the hands, face, lips, eyes, throat, or tongue; difficulty swallowing or breathing; or hoarseness).What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Vasotec?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Vasotec. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have liver or kidney disease, have bone marrow problems or any blood disease, any disease that affects the immune system (such as lupus, scleroderma), collagen vascular disease, narrowing or hardening of the arteries of the brain or heart, chest pain, or if you have ever had an allergy or sensitivity to an ACE inhibitor such as Vasotec. In addition, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Blood Pressure
Adults: The usual dosage is 5 mg taken once a day. Your individual dose may be increased to 10-40 mg taken as one daily dose or in divided doses.
If you are taking a diuretic (water pill), your doctor will prescribe or adjust your dose as needed.
Children: Your doctor will prescribe the appropriate dose for your child.
Heart Failure
Adults: The usual starting dose is 2.5 mg twice a day. Your doctor may increase your dose up to 20 mg taken twice a day depending on your individual response. Doses should be increased over a period of a few days or weeks based on how you respond to the medication and any possible side effects that may occur.
How should I take Vasotec?
Vasotec can be taken with or without food and should be taken at the same time every day. If stomach upset occurs, take Vasotec with food.Take this medication as prescribed by your doctor. Do not change the dose or suddenly stop taking this medication for any reason without first contacting your doctor.
What should I avoid while taking Vasotec?
Do not operate automobiles or heavy machinery until you know how Vasotec will affect you. Avoid being exposed to excessive heat; excessive sweating, dehydration, severe diarrhea, or vomiting could prompt you to lose too much water, causing your blood pressure to drop dangerously; drink adequate fluids while taking Vasotec.You should not take salt substitutes or supplements containing potassium unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Avoid the sun, sunlamps, or tanning booths until you know how you react to Vasotec. Use sunscreen or wear protective clothing if you must be outside for more than a short time.
Avoid standing or sitting up too quickly when taking this medication, especially in the morning; lightheadedness or dizziness may occur.
Avoid taking any stimulants, such as diet pills or cold medications, without speaking to your doctor because they may alter the effectiveness of Vasotec.
What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Vasotec?
If Vasotec is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Vasotec with the following: amiloride, auranofin, dextran; furosemide, glyburide; lithium; NSAIDs; hydrochlorothiazide, spironolactone, triamterene; potassium supplements; or salt substitutes containing potassium.What are the possible side effects of Vasotec?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: dry cough, low blood pressure, dizziness, fatigue, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, chest pain, rash
Can I receive Vasotec if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
Vasotec should not be taken during pregnancy. Taking Vasotec during the second or third trimesters of your pregnancy could cause serious harm or even death to your unborn baby. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Vasotec is found in breast milk, and should not be taken if you are breastfeeding.What should I do if I miss a dose of Vasotec?
If you miss a dose of Vasotec, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Vasotec?
Store at room temperature. Store away from heat, moisture, and light.
I'm Beth Isaac, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
