Enalapril: Uses, Interactions and Safety
Uses
Enalapril is an ACE inhibitor used for high blood pressure and heart failure. It reduces the effects of angiotensin II and helps blood vessels relax. It can also delay symptomatic heart failure in selected people with reduced left ventricular function.
Administration
This summary concerns oral tablets. Take the medicine on the prescribed schedule; food does not materially affect absorption. Dose selection depends on blood pressure, kidney function and other treatment. Do not change a diuretic or potassium supplement without discussing the complete regimen.
Safety
Facial, tongue or throat swelling can indicate angioedema: seek emergency care and do not take another dose pending medical assessment. Dehydration can provoke severe low blood pressure. Blood tests check kidney function and potassium, especially after treatment changes. Persistent vomiting or diarrhoea needs prompt advice.
Interactions
Do not combine with sacubitril/valsartan; a supervised gap of at least 36 hours is required in either direction. Combining renin–angiotensin blockers generally adds kidney, potassium and hypotension risks. Potassium-sparing medicines, trimethoprim and some immunosuppressants require careful review. NSAID painkillers can impair kidney function; lithium levels may rise. Finerenone can be intentionally prescribed with an ACE inhibitor, with potassium monitoring.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Do not use during pregnancy. Report pregnancy promptly so treatment can be stopped and replaced. Breastfeeding advice differs by country: the Turkish information permits consideration in older infants with observation but advises against use in premature babies and early neonatal life. The US label calls for an individual feeding or treatment decision.
Adverse effects
Dry cough, dizziness, headache, fatigue and nausea are reported. A cough that persists should be discussed; do not simply stop heart failure treatment. Fainting, markedly reduced urine or new palpitations need urgent assessment.
Sources
The linked Turkish profile contains the medicine record and its documented interaction list.