Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Enalapril (Vasotec) and Nimodipine (Nymalize) are both prescription medications, but they are used for different conditions and belong to different drug classes. Enalapril (Vasotec) is an ACE inhibitor used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure, while Nimodipine (Nymalize) is a calcium channel blocker used to prevent brain damage after a type of brain bleed called an aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). Enalapril is typically taken once or twice daily, whereas Nimodipine must be taken every 4 hours for 3 weeks. Enalapril can cause side effects like tiredness, dizziness, and cough, while Nimodipine's common side effects include low blood pressure and dizziness. Enalapril is available in both pill and liquid forms, making it easier for people who have trouble swallowing pills, whereas Nimodipine comes in capsules and a liquid form. Additionally, Enalapril should not be used during pregnancy, while Nimodipine requires careful monitoring of blood pressure due to its potential to cause dangerously low blood pressure.
Enalapril (Vasotec)
Nimodipine (Nymalize)
Enalapril (Vasotec)
Nimodipine (Nymalize)
Summary of Enalapril vs. Nimodipine
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 Calcium channel blocker (CCB)
Prescription only
Nimodipine (Nymalize) is used to help prevent brain damage after an aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (a type of brain bleed). Your provider will typically start this medication in the hospital as soon as possible, but usually within 4 days of a subarachnoid hemorrhage. Nimodipine (Nymalize) is taken by mouth or given through a feeding tube every 4 hours for 3 weeks. Generic nimodipine comes as an oral capsule, while brand name Nymalize (nimodipine) comes as an oral liquid. The most common side effect of nimodipine (Nymalize) is low blood pressure, so your provider will check your blood pressure regularly while you're taking this medication.
Indications of Enalapril vs. Nimodipine
Indications for
•High blood pressure
•Heart failure
Indications for
•Prevention of brain damage after a type of brain bleed called an aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH)
Pros and Cons of Enalapril vs. Nimodipine
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