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:

• 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. Always wash
• your hands after handling this medication.
• Side Effects:
• Discuss any side effects with your veterinarian immediately. Common side effects include low
• blood pressure, dizziness, weakness, and stomach upset. Less frequently, kidney damage or
• alterations in blood potassium levels may occur.
• Precautions:
• Enalapril should be kept out of reach of children and only given to the pet for which it was
• prescribed. Regular monitoring of blood chemistry, kidney function, and blood pressure is
• necessary due to the 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:
• Careful monitoring is essential when enalapril is used in conjunction with other medications,
• especially diuretics, and other vasodilators, 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.