Vasotec (Enalapril)

What is Vasotec?

Vasotec belongs to a class of medications called ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme) inhibitors.

What is Vasotec used for?

Vasotec is used for the treatment of high blood pressure or hypertension in adults and children. It is also indicated for the treatment of congestive heart failure, and prevention of heart attacks, stroke, and kidney disorder. The medicine also enhances recovery after cardiac arrest.

How does Vasotec work?

Vasotec works by relaxing the blood vessels and causing them to widen. Relaxed blood vessels help lower the blood pressure.

How to use Vasotec

Strictly follow the instructions given by your physician. For any further queries read the information label attached with it.

Vasotec can be consumed with or without food. It is to be taken by mouth, once or twice daily, with a glass of water. In case your stomach gets upset after taking it on an empty stomach, start taking Vasotec with food. This will lessen the stomach infection. Remember to take it at the same time each day.

Vasotec also comes in liquid form. Shake the bottle well before use and measure the amount to be taken. It is advised not to consume more than suggested.

Vasotec warnings and precautions

Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to Vasotec or to any other ACE inhibitor.

Prior to taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have liver or kidney disease, diabetes, congestive heart failure or any other heart disease, or a connective tissue disorder such as lupus, scleroderma, rheumatoid arthritis, Marfan syndrome, or Sjogren’s syndrome.

Dizziness or lightheadedness may be caused while taking this medicine. These effects can further worsen with consumption of alcohol. So, avoid drinking alcohol if you are on Vasotec dosage.

Using salt substitutes or any drug with potassium content should be avoided.

In case you experience severe vomiting and diarrhea, check with your doctor immediately, so as not to get dehydrated. It is likely that blood pressure patients may feel tired for a week or so in the earlier stage of treatment. Do not miss your dose even if you feel well. Any new symptoms should be reported to the doctor.

Avoid direct exposure to harsh sunlight. Also, before walking in for a dental treatment or seeing any other doctor, tell the surgeon/doctor about your Vasotec treatment.

Pregnant and lactating women should consult their doctors before taking this medicine.

What do I do if I have missed a Vasotec dose?

If you have missed your Vasotec dose, you should take it just as you remember. If it’s time for the next dose, skip the missed one and go back to the daily routine.

What do I do if I have taken a Vasotec overdose?

If you have taken a Vasotec overdose, you should immediately consult your doctor.

Vasotec interactions

There are certain drugs that interact with Vasotec, therefore, it is important to tell your doctor about your all other prescriptions.

Extreme lowering of blood pressure can take place which can result in fainting or dizziness, if you take diuretics. Drugs like dextran sulfate can cause increased risk of allergy, if taken along with Vasotec. The drug interaction between Vasotec and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may harm the kidneys and alter Vasotec’s efficacy.

This drug may react with oral diabetes medicine, resulting in low blood sugar levels. It might as well interact with gold-containing medicines.

Potassium supplements and Potassium-sparing diuretics might react with Vasotec and increase the level of potassium in the blood. Therefore, inform your doctor about all prescribed and non prescribed drugs being taken by you.

Vasotec side effects

Some common side effects of Vasotec are headache, dizziness, drowsiness, tiredness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, cough, insomnia, dry mouth, loss of appetite, and mild skin rash.

Instant medical aid is recommended if you witness any of the severe side effects from Vasotec. These include rapid weight gain, irregular heartbeats, bruising, bleeding, yellowing of the skin or eyes, chest pain, fever, chills, lightheadedness, body ache, swelling, severe stomach ache, breathing trouble, and decreased urination.