Vasotec

Vasotec (Enalapril Maleate) is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor medication designed for the management of hypertension and heart failure. This prescription medication works by relaxing blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more smoothly and reducing the cardiovascular system’s workload. Clinically proven and widely prescribed, Vasotec represents a cornerstone therapy in modern cardiovascular treatment protocols, offering both efficacy and a well-established safety profile when used under proper medical supervision.

Features

• Contains Enalapril Maleate as the active pharmaceutical ingredient
• Available in multiple tablet strengths (2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg)
• Film-coated tablets for easier swallowing
• Manufactured under strict quality control standards
• Long-acting formulation for 24-hour blood pressure control
• Bioequivalent to the reference listed drug

Benefits

• Effectively lowers high blood pressure, reducing strain on the heart and arteries
• Improves survival rates in patients with congestive heart failure
• Helps prevent kidney damage caused by hypertension and diabetes
• May reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke in high-risk patients
• Provides consistent 24-hour blood pressure control with once or twice daily dosing
• Well-tolerated by most patients with minimal impact on daily activities

Common use

Vasotec is primarily prescribed for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure) in adults and children. It is also indicated for the management of symptomatic heart failure, often in combination with diuretics and digitalis. Additionally, Vasotec is used to improve survival following myocardial infarction in clinically stable patients with left ventricular dysfunction. Physicians may also prescribe it for diabetic nephropathy to slow the progression of kidney disease in patients with type 1 diabetes.

Dosage and direction

The recommended initial dosage for hypertension in adults not taking diuretics is 5 mg once daily. Dosage may be increased to a maintenance dose of 10-40 mg administered once or in two divided doses. For heart failure, the initial dose is 2.5 mg once daily, with gradual titration to a target dose of 10-20 mg twice daily as tolerated. Pediatric dosing is based on weight and clinical response. Tablets should be swallowed whole with water, with or without food, at approximately the same time each day. Dosage adjustments are necessary for patients with renal impairment.

Precautions

Patients should undergo baseline renal function and electrolyte assessment before initiating therapy. Regular blood pressure monitoring is essential, especially during dosage adjustments. Potassium supplements and salt substitutes containing potassium should be used cautiously due to risk of hyperkalemia. Dehydration should be avoided, as it may increase the risk of hypotension. Patients should report any signs of infection, as neutropenia/agranulocytosis has been reported with ACE inhibitors. Angioedema may occur at any time during treatment and requires immediate medical attention.

Contraindications

Vasotec is contraindicated in patients with a history of angioedema related to previous ACE inhibitor treatment. It should not be used in patients with hereditary or idiopathic angioedema. Concomitant use with aliskiren-containing products is contraindicated in patients with diabetes. The medication is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to any component of this product or other ACE inhibitors. It should not be used during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy due to potential fetal harm.

Possible side effect

Common side effects may include dizziness (4-8%), headache (2-5%), fatigue (2-3%), and cough (1-2%). Less frequently, patients may experience orthostatic hypotension, rash, nausea, or impaired renal function. Rare but serious adverse effects include angioedema (0.1-0.2%), hyperkalemia, neutropenia/agranulocytosis, and hepatic failure. The characteristic dry, persistent cough typically resolves upon discontinuation of therapy. Most side effects are dose-dependent and may diminish with continued treatment.

Drug interaction

Vasotec may interact with diuretics, potentially causing excessive blood pressure reduction. Concurrent use with potassium-sparing diuretics or potassium supplements may lead to hyperkalemia. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may reduce the antihypertensive effect and increase renal impairment risk. Lithium levels may increase when used concomitantly. Dual blockade of the renin-angiotensin system with ARBs or aliskiren increases risks of hypotension and renal impairment. Antidiabetic medications may require dosage adjustment due to potential hypoglycemic effects.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Patients should never take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Consistency in dosing is important for maintaining stable blood pressure control. If multiple doses are missed, patients should contact their healthcare provider for guidance on resuming therapy.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include severe hypotension, bradycardia, circulatory shock, electrolyte disturbances, and renal failure. Management involves supportive measures including volume expansion with normal saline to restore blood pressure. Hemodialysis may be effective in removing enalapril and enalaprilat from the systemic circulation. Patients should be monitored for hypotension and electrolyte imbalances for an extended period, as the drug’s effects may be prolonged. Vasopressors may be required in cases of severe hypotension unresponsive to volume expansion.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature between 20-25°C (68-77°F), with excursions permitted between 15-30°C (59-86°F). Keep the container tightly closed and protect from moisture and light. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use after the expiration date printed on the packaging. Do not transfer tablets to other containers, as this may affect stability. Proper storage ensures maintenance of pharmaceutical quality and efficacy throughout the product’s shelf life.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Vasotec is a prescription medication that should be used only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Individual response to medication may vary, and only a healthcare provider can determine the appropriate treatment based on a patient’s specific medical condition, history, and current medications. Patients should not discontinue or adjust dosage without consulting their physician.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate Vasotec’s efficacy in reducing blood pressure and improving outcomes in heart failure patients. In the SOLVD treatment trial, enalapril significantly reduced mortality and hospitalization rates in patients with heart failure. The CONSENSUS trial showed a 27% reduction in mortality with enalapril in severe heart failure patients. Many physicians consider it a well-established, reliable option with predictable effects and a favorable risk-benefit profile. Patient satisfaction surveys indicate good tolerability, though some report the characteristic ACE inhibitor cough as a reason for discontinuation.