Enalapril Maleate
Generic Details
Generic Name
Enalapril Maleate
Other Names
- Enalapril
Drug Class
- Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitor
Chemical Formula
C20H28N2O5
Molecular Weight
376.45 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Enalapril is a prodrug that inhibits the angiotensin-converting enzyme, leading to decreased levels of angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor.
Indications
- Hypertension
- Heart failure
- Left ventricular dysfunction
Common Dosage Forms
- Tablet
- Liquid solution
Typical Dosage
- 5-40 mg daily in 1-2 divided doses for hypertension
- 2.5-20 mg daily for heart failure
Pediatric Dosage
- Dosage based on weight and medical condition; use under medical supervision
Geriatric Dosage
- Initial lower doses due to age-related decline in renal function
Side Effects
- Cough
- Hypotension
- Hyperkalemia
- Renal impairment
- Angioedema
Contraindications
- History of angioedema with previous ACE inhibitor use
- Pregnancy
- Aliskiren use in patients with diabetes
Pregnancy Category
- C - 1st trimester
- D - 2nd and 3rd trimester
Lactation Safety
- Limited data, use caution
Drug Interactions
- Potassium-sparing diuretics
- NSAIDs
- Lithium
Overdose Symptoms
- Hypotension
- Electrolyte disturbances
Antidote for Overdose
- Supportive care; intravenous fluids; vasopressors if needed
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract
- Distribution: Crosses the placenta; excreted in breast milk
- Metabolism: Hepatic conversion to active form enalaprilat
- Excretion: Primarily renal excretion of inactive metabolites
Precautions
- Renal impairment
- Hypotension
- Hyperkalemia
- Volume depletion
Warnings
- Fetal toxicity
- Angioedema risk
- Neutropenia risk in patients with collagen-vascular disease