Cat & Dog - Enalapril

Why has my veterinary surgeon prescribed this medicine?

Enalapril is an angiotensin-converting-enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. This medication may be used to treat high blood pressure and as a vasodilator (to dilate blood vessels) in the treatment of heart failure. High blood pressure makes the heart work harder. If this continues, the heart and arteries may get damaged and not function correctly. If the heart does not work properly, it could also damage the blood vessels of the brain, heart and kidneys. This medication may be used for other conditions as prescribed by your veterinary surgeon.

How does this medicine work?

Enalapril is a angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor that blocks the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor.

How do I give this medication?

• Give this medication to your pet as directed by your veterinary surgeon. READ THE LABEL CAREFULLY.
• Try to give this medication at about the same time(s) each day.
• DO NOT give the pet more medicine than directed and DO NOT give the medicine more often than directed.
• Try not to miss giving any doses.
• DO NOT stop giving this medication to your pet without first consulting the veterinary surgeon. Contact your veterinary surgeon ahead of time if your pet requires medication refills.
• Wash your hands after handling this medication.
• In case of accidental ingestion, seek medical advice immediately and show the package, leaflet or label to the physician.

What if I miss giving a dose?

Give the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose, and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

How do I store this medicine?

Keep this medicine out of reach of children. Store this medicine in a cool, dry place at room temperature. Store away from heat and direct sunlight. Do not store this medicine in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink or in damp places. The medicine may break down if exposed to heat or moisture.

Potential side effects

• Although a drug has potential side effects, it does not mean that there is necessarily a high risk of any of these occurring. Tell your veterinary surgeon if you think your pet may be pregnant.
• Depending on other treatment given, your veterinary surgeon may monitor your pet’s blood to check the potassium level and kidney function. Contact your veterinary surgeon if your pet is extremely tired or appears dizzy (uncoordinated).
• Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinary surgeon.

Possible drug interactions

• Make sure to tell your veterinary surgeon what other medication you are giving to your pet.
• Quite often your veterinary surgeon may prescribe two different medications, and a drug interaction may be anticipated. In this case, your veterinary surgeon may vary the dose and/or monitor your pet more closely.
• Drugs may interact such that they can cause an increased or decreased effect or side effects. Care with concurrent use of diuretics.
• Contact your veterinary surgeon if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.