Enalapril

Enalapril, a medication belonging to the class of drugs called ACE inhibitors, is licensed to treat high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, and left ventricular dysfunction. Enalapril works by blocking the angiotensin-converting enzyme, causing blood vessels to relax, which can lower blood pressure. Enalapril comes in tablet form and is generally taken once or twice per day. Possible side effects of enalapril may include cough, headache, and fatigue.

 

What Is Enalapril?

Enalapril is a prescription medicine 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.
 
Enalapril was originally developed by Merck & Co. and sold under the brand name Vasotec®. It has since come off patent, making it available as a generic. Several companies sell generic enalapril under the name Enalapril Maleate tablets.
 

What Is Enalapril Used For?

Enalapril is licensed to treat a number of conditions. For adults, these enalapril indications include:
 
Enalapril tablets are also used to treat high blood pressure in children one month of age and older
 

How Does Enalapril Work?

Enalapril is part of a class of drugs called ACE inhibitors.
 ACE stands for angiotensin-converting enzyme. Enalapril helps 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 causes blood vessels to relax, which can lower blood pressure.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;