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. It 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 include cough, headache, and fatigue.

Enalapril Medication

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.

It 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?

The drug is licensed to treat a number of conditions. For adults, these uses include:

Controlling high blood pressure (hypertension)
Congestive heart failure treatment
Treatment of left ventricular dysfunction.

Enalapril tablets are also used to treat high blood pressure in children one month of age and older.

(Click Enalapril Uses for more information on what this medication is used for, including off-label uses.)

How Does It Work?

Enalapril is part of a class of drugs called ACE inhibitors.

ACE stands for angiotensin-converting enzyme. The medication 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, it causes blood vessels to relax, which can lower blood pressure.

Enalapril Article Continues on Next Page >