What is Enalapril?

Enalapril is used to treat minor to severe heart failure, dilated cardiomyopathy, or high blood pressure. It may also be used to treat chronic kidney failure. It lowers blood pressure, lowers the stress on the heart, and reduces fluid build-up in the lungs. It is often givev with Furosemide or Digoxin. Enalapril decreases the formation of compounds and hormones that constrict blood vessels in animals with heart and vascular disease. Enalapril requires a prescription from your veterinarian, and is sold by the tablet.

For:

Cats and Dogs

Benefits:

• Treat and prevent heart failure
• Prevents fluid buildup in the lungs
• Lowers blood pressure
• Improves ability to tolerate exercise
• Treats excessive protein loss in urine

Cautions:

Do not give your pet potassium supplements unless directed by your veterinarian. Tell your veterinarian if your pet has kidney or liver disease; heart disease or congestive heart failure; diabetes; lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis. Tell your veterinarian if your pet is pregnant, lactating, or if you intend to breed your pet. Enalapril should not be used in animals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to the drug. Enalapril may interact with other medications. Consult with your veterinarian to determine if other drugs your pet is receiving could interact with enalapril. Such drugs include furosemide, spironolactone and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories. Enalapril may relax blood vessels to such a degree that some animals become weak due to low blood pressure.

Brand Name:

Various

Generic Name:

Enalapril

What happens if I miss giving a dose:

Give the missed dose as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and give the next one as directed. Do not give a double dose of the medication.

Possible side effects of Enalapril:

If any of the following serious side effects occur, stop using this Enalapril and seek emergency veterinary care; an allergic reaction (swelling of the lips, face, or tongue; difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; or hives). Call your veterinarian if your pet develops any of these serious side effects; fainting; urinating more or less than usual, or not at all; fever, chills; easy bruising, or bleeding; swelling, rapid weight gain. Continue to use Enalapril, but speak to your veterinarian if your pet experiences; cough; loss of appetite; dizziness, drowsiness; sleep problems; dry mouth; nausea, vomiting, diarrhea; mild itching or skin rash.

Storage:

Store this medication at room temperature away from heat and moisture.