Enalapril
(Enacard, Vasotec)

Common Drug Name Enalapril

Common Brand Names: Enacard, Vasotec (human form) Generic products are available.

Storage: Refrigerate oral suspension. Store other forms at room temperature (less than 86°F) in a tightly closed, childproof container, protected from moisture. Do not remove the desiccant.

Uses: Enalapril is in the class of drugs called ACE inhibitors. It dilates the veins and decreases fluid retention. It is used in dogs, cats, and ferrets for the treatment of heart failure, dilated cardiomyopathy, and high blood pressure. It is also sometimes used in the treatment of some types of chronic renal failure. Results should be seen within about 2 weeks.

Dose and Administration: Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your veterinarian. If you have difficulty giving the medication, contact your veterinarian. Give the oral form by mouth, with or without food. If using the transdermal gel, apply to the skin as directed by your veterinarian. Do not abruptly start or stop this medication without approval by your veterinarian. Treatment is normally continued for the duration of the animal's life. If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the regular schedule. Do not give 2 doses at once. This medication should only be given to the pet for whom it was prescribed.

Possible Side Effects: Most commonly may see loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, listlessness, and incoordination. May also see low blood pressure, which may cause weakness or collapse; kidney dysfunction, which may cause increased thirst and/or changes in urination; and abnormally high potassium levels, which may cause weakness, a slow heart rate, and a weak pulse. Contact your veterinarian if your pet has any of these signs. If your pet experiences an allergic reaction to the medication, signs may include facial swelling, hives, scratching, sudden onset of diarrhea, vomiting, shock, seizures, pale gums, cold limbs, or coma. If you observe any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Precautions: Do not use in animals who are hypersensitive (allergic) to this drug or other ACE inhibitors. Not for use in pregnant and lactating animals (female animals nursing their young). Use with caution in animals with kidney disease. Animals with liver disease may not be able to properly convert the medication to its active form. Switching from the veterinary to human brand of enalapril may require additional monitoring. Contact your veterinarian. Consult your veterinarian regarding the physical examinations and laboratory testing needed prior to and during the use of this medication.

Drug, Food, and Test Interactions: Consult your veterinarian before using enalapril with any other medications, including vitamins and supplements, diuretics (e.g. Lasix, Salix), other vasodilators, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) e.g., aspirin, etodolac (EtoGesic), carprofen (Novox or Rimadyl), meloxicam (Metacam, firocoxib (Previcox), tepoxalin (Zubrin), or deracoxib (Deramaxx), since interactions may occur. This medication is commonly given along with diuretics such as furosemide (Lasix, Salix), and may require adjustment of the diuretic dose by your veterinarian. It is important your pet does not become dehydrated while taking enalapril. Make sure your pet has access to clean drinking water while taking this medication. High potassium levels may develop if potassium supplements, or potassium sparing diuretics, are given at the same time as enalapril.

Signs of Toxicity/Overdose: The most common sign of an overdose is weakness. May also see any of the other side effects listed above. If you know or suspect your pet has had an overdose, or if you observe any of these signs in your pet, contact your veterinarian immediately. Keep this and all other medications out of the reach of children and pets.

** This information may not cover all possible uses, directions, side effects, precautions, allergic reactions, drug interactions, or withdrawal times.  Always consult your own veterinarian for specific advice concerning the treatment of your pet.

If you have questions about this medication, please call our Pharmacy at (877) 815-6337 for a consultation