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Compare Enalapril vs. Edecrin

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Enalapril (Vasotec) and Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) are both prescription medications, but they serve different purposes and belong to different drug classes. Enalapril is an ACE inhibitor used primarily to treat high blood pressure and heart failure, while Ethacrynic acid is a loop diuretic (water pill) used to reduce swelling (edema) related to heart failure, liver cirrhosis, and kidney problems. Enalapril works by relaxing blood vessels, whereas Ethacrynic acid removes excess fluid and certain electrolytes from the body. Enalapril is taken once or twice daily and is available in both pill and liquid forms, making it suitable for children as young as 1 month old. On the other hand, Ethacrynic acid is typically taken once or twice daily and is also available as an injection for urgent situations. Enalapril can cause a dry cough and should not be used during pregnancy, while Ethacrynic acid can cause temporary hearing loss and may not be the best choice for people with serious liver problems or gout. Both medications can cause dizziness and low blood pressure, but Ethacrynic acid can also cause electrolyte imbalances and dehydration.

  • Enalapril (Vasotec)
    Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin)
  • Enalapril (Vasotec)
    Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin)

  • Summary of Enalapril vs. Edecrin

    Summary for ACE inhibitor
    Prescription only

    Enalapril (Vasotec) is a first-choice medication used for treating high blood pressure. It's also approved for heart failure. Enalapril (Vasotec) belongs to a class of medications called angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It's taken by mouth, once or twice daily. Enalapril (Vasotec) doesn't cause many side effects, but some include tiredness, dizziness, and cough.

    Summary for Diuretic (water pill)
    Prescription only

    Ethacrynic acid, also known by its brand name Edecrin, is a strong diuretic (water pill) for treating edema (swelling). It's a loop diuretic that can be used for people who have a sulfa allergy and can't take other diuretics in the same drug class. Ethacrynic acid (Edecrin) is a tablet that's taken by mouth, but the specific dosage depends on the medical condition that's causing the edema. Common side effects include tiredness, headache, and loss of appetite.

  • Indications of Enalapril vs. Edecrin

    Indications for
    •High blood pressure
    •Heart failure
    Indications for
    •Edema (swelling from fluid buildup) related to congestive heart failure, liver cirrhosis, or kidney problems
    •Short-term management of ascites (buildup of fluid in the stomach) due to cancer, edema from an unknown cause, or lymphedema (swelling caused by fluid buildup in the lymphatic system)

  • Pros and Cons of Enalapril vs. Edecrin

    Pros and Const for ACE inhibitor
    Pros
    •A first-choice blood pressure lowering medication for many people
    •Taken by mouth
    •Can be taken by children as young as 1 month old (high blood pressure only)
    •Available as a liquid for people who have trouble swallowing pills
    Cons
    •More likely to cause a dry cough, compared to angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs)
    •Can't be taken during pregnancy or breastfeeding
    •Might not work as well for lowering high blood pressure in black people
    •Need to take twice daily for heart failure
    Pros and Const for Diuretic (water pill)
    Pros
    •Works well at making you urinate out extra fluids from the body to
    •Can take if you have an allergy to sulfa drugs
    •Can take if you have kidney problems (but will need close monitoring)
    Cons
    •Can cause temporary hearing loss or ringing in the ears
    •Can cause stomach upset and diarrhea
    •Not a good choice for people with serious liver problems

  • Common Side Effects of Enalapril vs. Edecrin

    Common Side Effects for
    •Feeling tired (3%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache
    •Feeling tired or weak
    •Low blood pressure (causing dizziness)
    •Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
    •Temporary hearing loss
    •Blurry vision
    •Stomach discomfort
    •Diarrhea
    •Nausea
    •Vomiting
    •Low appetite
    •Trouble swallowing
    •Skin rash

  • Warnings of Enalapril vs. Edecrin

    Common Side Effects for
    •Not for use during pregnancy
    •Angioedema (swelling)
    •Low blood pressure
    •Worsening kidney problems
    •Heart problems due to high potassium
    •Liver problems
    Common Side Effects for
    •Dehydration
    •Abnormal electrolyte levels
    •Low blood pressure
    •Ear damage and hearing problems
    •Severe diarrhea
    •Possible gout
    •Higher blood sugar

  • Prices with our coupons for Enalapril vs. Edecrin

    Learn more about Enalapril
    Learn more about Ethacrynic acid

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