General Drug Information and Indications:

Enalapril Maleate is a vasodilator used primarily in dogs and cats to manage heart and kidney conditions by causing vasodilation of the blood vessels. This action helps to reduce the workload on the heart and lower blood pressure. It is often prescribed in conjunction with other medications like diuretics or beta blockers to enhance efficacy. While FDA approved for use in dogs, enalapril is also commonly used off-label in cats to treat hypertension and heart conditions.

Administration Tips:

• Dosage Administration: Administer enalapril exactly as prescribed by your veterinarian. If a dose is missed, give it as soon as possible unless it's near the time for the next dose; do not double the dose.
• Handling: Always wash your hands after handling this medication.

Side Effects:

• Common: Low blood pressure, Dizziness, Weakness, and Stomach Upset.
• Less Common: Kidney damage or alterations in blood potassium levels may occur.

Precautions:

• Child Safety: Enalapril should be kept out of reach of children and only given to the pet for which it was prescribed.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood chemistry, kidney function, and blood pressure is necessary due to potential worsening of underlying kidney issues and other health risks. Special care is needed in pets with decreased liver or kidney function, as well as diabetic animals, as enalapril may alter insulin requirements.

Drug Interactions:

• Diuretics and Other Vasodilators: Careful monitoring is essential when enalapril is used in conjunction with diuretics and other vasodilators especially due to risks of significant blood pressure drops and changes in potassium levels.
• NSAIDs, including aspirin: Should be avoided as they increase the risk of kidney damage.

Overdose:

In the event of an accidental overdose, contact your veterinarian or the A.S.P.C. A's Animal Poison Control Center at 888.426.4435. If a human ingests enalapril by mistake, contact the National Capital Poison Center at 800.222.1222. Always bring the prescription container when seeking treatment.

Storage:

Storage requirements for enalapril maleate may vary by the strength and dosage form. Consult the medication label or your pharmacist for proper storage instructions.