ENALAPRIL MALEATE
Background and Date of Approval
The U.S. FDA approved enalapril maleate on 24 December 1985 for the treatment of hypertension and heart failure.
Uses
Enalapril maleate is used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure and to prevent the symptoms of it (shortness of breath, tiredness after physical activity like walking, or swelling of the ankles and feet).
How is it administered?
Enalapril maleate is available as a 2.5mg tablet which is administered orally.Your physician will decide the correct dosage and duration based on age, body weight, and disease condition.
Side Effects
The common side effects experienced while you are on the treatment with Enalapril maleate are feeling dizzy, weak, or sick, blurred vision, light-headedness, and a fast heartbeat, which can indicate low blood pressure or changes in heart rhythm. Chest pain and shortness of breath are concerning symptoms that may be linked to angina or other cardiovascular issues. Headaches, depression, and fainting may also be associated with these conditions or as side effects of certain medications. Gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal pain could be due to various underlying causes. High levels of potassium and increased creatinine in the blood can signify kidney problems.
Warnings
Inform your doctor if you are allergic to enalapril maleate or any of the ingredients present in them and swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat, which causes difficulty in swallowing or breathing (angioedema), diabetes, or impaired kidney function, liver problem.
Precautions
Consult your doctor before going to any surgery or anesthesia administration (including dental procedures) if you are under enalapril maleate medication. Children with liver disorders and elderly patients with kidney disorders should be cautious while taking the medicine. Consult your doctor if you are planning to get pregnant or think you may be pregnant while breastfeeding.
Word of Advice
Monitor your blood pressure and glucose, potassium, and creatinine levels during treatment, as the drug may cause low blood pressure, elevation of potassium, and elevated creatinine levels. Inform your doctor if you have a heart problem, a condition involving the blood vessels in the brain, a blood disorder, a liver problem, or lactose intolerance, as the formulation contains lactose.
References
APL Swift Services (Malta) Limited, Electronic medicines compendium (EMC), [ Revised on Oct 2021] [ Accessed on 2nd Oct 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/2671/pil Valeant Pharmaceuticals International, Inc, US Food and Drug Administration, [ Revised on Dec 2014] [ Accessed on 2nd Oct 2023], https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2014/018998s079lbl.pdf
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take Enalapril maleate before going to surgery?
It is recommended to speak with your doctor before using the medicine if you need to go for any surgery or anesthesia administration (including dental procedures)
Can I take Enalapril maleate if I have a liver or kidney disorder history?
Enalapril maleate may cause side effects in patients with liver or kidney disorders (especially in children and elders). Inform your doctor before starting taking enalapril maleate.
Can I use Enalapril maleate when I have diabetes?
It is recommended to be cautious before taking the medicine when you have diabetes. Enalapril maleate is contraindicated for diabetes patients. Hence, you need to consult your doctor.
Can I drive while taking Enalapril maleate?
No, it is not recommended to drive or handle machines. Enalapril maleate may cause dizziness or sleepiness. Consult your doctor before going to drive.
Is there a specific monitoring schedule or tests I must undergo while taking Enalapril maleate?
You may be advised to monitor your blood pressure, glucose, potassium, and creatinine levels. There is a risk of a drop in blood pressure and glucose levels and increase of potassium and creatinine level as a side effect. So, it is recommended to monitor your blood pressure before treatment.