Enalapril Maleate

Enalapril Maleate is a generic form of Vasotec, a medication used to treat high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, and left ventricular dysfunction. Belonging to a class of drugs known as ACE inhibitors, Enalapril Maleate tablets work by blocking the angiotensin-converting enzyme, causing blood vessels to relax, which can lower blood pressure. Enalapril Maleate tablets are generally taken once or twice daily. Side effects of Enalapril Maleate tablets may include a cough, low blood pressure, headaches, and dizziness.

 

What Is Enalapril Maleate?

Enalapril Maleate is a generic version of Vasotec® that has been licensed to treat several conditions related to the heart and blood vessels. It is part of a class of drugs called angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, or ACE inhibitors for short.
 

Who Makes Enalapril Maleate?

Enalapril Maleate tablets are currently manufactured by a number of companies, including:
 
  • Teva Pharmaceuticals
  • Par Pharmaceuticals
  • Mylan Labs
  • Watson Pharmaceuticals
  • Ranbaxy Pharmaceuticals.
     

Enalapril Maleate: Uses

Enalapril Maleate is licensed to treat a number of conditions. For adults, these uses of Enalapril Maleate include:
 
Enalapril Maleate is not a cure for high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, or left ventricular dysfunction.
 
Enalapril Maleate tablets may also be used to treat high blood pressure in children one month of age and older.
 

How Does Enalapril Maleate Work?

Enalapril Maleate belongs to a class of drugs called ACE inhibitors.
 ACE stands for angiotensin-converting enzyme. Enalapril Maleate tablets help to block the angiotensin-converting enzyme, which is normally part of a reaction in the body that causes the blood vessels to narrow (constrict). By blocking this enzyme, Enalapril Maleate causes blood vessels to relax, which can lower blood pressure.
 
Because Enalapril Maleate tablets help blood vessels to relax, they also increase the efficiency of the heart. This means that the heart does not have to work as hard, and more blood can be pumped out to the rest of the body. Both of these are helpful for a person with congestive heart failure.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;