Patient Medication

Enalapril
Description
Enalapril (also called Vasotec) is an antihypertensive (blood pressure lowering agent) known as an ACE inhibitor. It controls blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels. High blood pressure levels can damage kidneys and may lead to a stroke or heart failure. Enalapril is available in the following forms: A 2.5-mg, 5-mg, and 10-mg tablet taken by mouth A white 0.1 mg/mL liquid taken by mouth A clear liquid given by vein (IV).

Possible side effects

Feeling dizzy or lightheaded, fainting spells Cough Low blood pressure Decreased kidney function and less urine passed Feeling tired Low blood counts with higher risk of infection, bleeding, and anemia High potassium blood levels Headache Swelling of face, lips, or tongue Problems breathing or swallowing Hoarse or tight feeling in throat Swelling of legs or ankles Rash

These are the most common side effects, but there may be others. Please report all side effects to the doctor or nurse. In case of a severe side effect or reaction, call the doctor, nurse or pharmacist at 595-3300. If you are outside the Memphis area, dial toll-free 1-866-2STJUDE (1-866-278-5833), and press 0 once the call is connected.

This document is not intended to take the place of the care and attention of your personal physician or other professional medical services. Our aim is to promote active participation in your care and treatment by providing information and education. Questions about individual health concerns or specific treatment options should be discussed with your physician. Copyright 2004 St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

Page 1 of 2

Revised 02/04

Enalapril
Special instructions
If you have swelling of your face, lips, or tongue; a hoarse or tight feeling in your throat; or problems swallowing or breathing while you are taking enalapril, you should stop taking enalapril and tell your doctor right away. This medicine may make you feel dizzy or lightheaded. Do not operate heavy equipment or drive a motor vehicle until you see how this medicine will affect you. To avoid dizzy or fainting spells do not sit up or stand up too quickly. You or your nurse should check your blood pressure regularly while you are taking enalapril. Your doctor will tell you what to do if your blood pressure level is low or high. Your dose of enalapril may be changed based on your blood pressure level. If your blood pressure is above _____________ or below__________ call your doctor right away. If you have a sudden onset of severe diarrhea or vomiting or if you sweat a lot, tell your doctor right away. This loss of body fluid might decrease your blood pressure. Enalapril may affect the way other medicines work. Some medicines may also affect the way enalapril works. These medicines include: ibuprofen, naproxen, heparin, lithium, potassium salts, and diuretics including potassium-sparing diuretics. Always tell your doctor if you are taking any of these medicines, or if you start taking any new medicine while you are taking enalapril. Do not take salt substitutes or potassium supplements, or eat foods high in potassium while taking enalapril. Do not treat yourself for symptoms like cough, cold, or pain while you are taking enalapril. Talk to your doctor before taking any medicine for these symptoms. If an oral liquid suspension of enalapril is made by the St. Jude pharmacy, you should shake the suspension well before you take the medicine. The oral liquid should be refrigerated. Discard the medicine after the date on the label expires.

This document is not intended to take the place of the care and attention of your personal physician or other professional medical services. Our aim is to promote active participation in your care and treatment by providing information and education. Questions about individual health concerns or specific treatment options should be discussed with your physician. Copyright 2004 St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

Page 2 of 2

Revised 02/04