Home • Veterinary Pharmacy Articles • Enalapril

Veterinary Pharmacy Articles

Enalapril

Why has my veterinarian prescribed this medicine?

Enalapril is an angiotensin-converting-enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. This medication may be used to treat high blood pressure and as a vasodilator in the treatment of heart failure. High blood pressure makes the heart work harder. If this continues, the heart and arteries may get damaged and not function correctly. If the heart does not work properly, it could also damage the blood vessels of the brain, heart, and kidneys. This medication may be used for other conditions as prescribed by your veterinarian.

How do I give this medication?

• Give this medication to your pet as directed by your veterinarian. READ THE LABEL CAREFULLY.
• If the medicine is in liquid form, measure the dose with reasonable care.
• Give this medication on an empty stomach unless otherwise prescribed by your veterinarian.
• Try to give this medication at about the same time(s) each day.
• DO NOT give the pet more medicine than directed.
• DO NOT give the medicine more often than directed.
• Try not to miss giving any doses.
• DO NOT stop giving this medication to your pet without first consulting the veterinarian. Contact your veterinarian ahead of time if your pet requires medication refills.

What do I do if I miss giving a dose?

Give the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose, and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

How do I store this medicine?

• Keep this medicine out of reach of children.
• Store this medicine in a cool, dry place at room temperature. Store away from heat and direct sunlight.
• Do not store this medicine in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink or in damp places. The medicine may break down if exposed to heat or moisture.

Potential Side Effects

• Your pet may experience some stomach upset – lack of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea. Notify your veterinarian if vomiting or diarrhea persists or is severe.
• Notify your veterinarian if your pet is extremely tired or appears dizzy (uncoordinated)
• Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian.

Possible Drug Interactions

• Make sure to tell your veterinarian what other medication you are giving to your pet.
• Quite often your veterinarian may prescribe two different medications, and a drug interaction may be anticipated. In this case, your veterinarian may vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely.
• The following drugs can potentially interact with enalapril: indomethacin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents, potassium sparing diuretics such as spironolactone, potassium supplements, digoxin, diuretics, and other vasodilators.
• Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.