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Enalapril Coupon - Enalapril 2.5mg tablet

enalapril

Generic Vasotec
Used for Heart Failure, Hypertension
Used for Heart Failure, Hypertension

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.

Last reviewed on May 1, 2023
basics-icon

What is Enalapril (Vasotec)?

What is Enalapril (Vasotec) used for?

  • High blood pressure

  • Heart failure

How Enalapril (Vasotec) works

Enalapril (Vasotec) is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. It relaxes your blood vessels by blocking a protein (called ACE) from squeezing your blood vessels.

Drug Facts

Common BrandsVasotec, Epaned
Drug ClassACE inhibitor
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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$41.93(save 85.69%)
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What are the side effects of Enalapril (Vasotec)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Feeling tired (3%)

Other Side Effects

  • Feeling dizzy while standing from a sitting position
  • Weakness
  • Cough
  • Rash

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Angioedema: swelling (in the face, lips, tongue, throat, hands, or feet), trouble breathing, wheezing, nausea, vomiting
  • Severe allergic reaction: trouble breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Serious kidney problems: urinating less often than usual, swelling in your feet, ankles, or hands, unexplained weight gain
  • High blood potassium levels: nausea, tiredness, chest pain, muscle weakness, tingling or numbness, pounding heart, nausea
  • Severely low blood pressure: lightheadedness, dizziness, feeling faint, tiredness, confusion

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Blurred vision

confusion

dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position

sweating

unusual tiredness or weakness

Less common

Chest pain

cough producing mucus

diarrhea

difficult or labored breathing

fainting

fever or chills

nausea

sneezing

sore throat

tightness in the chest

vomiting

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Dizziness

Less common

Lack or loss of strength

rash

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Enalapril (Vasotec)

thumbs-up

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

thumbs-down

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

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Enalapril (Vasotec)

pharmacist
  • Take enalapril (Vasotec) with or without food at any time of day.

    • You might feel dizzy when you start taking enalapril (Vasotec), and when your provider raises your dose. This should get better over time as you continue taking the medication and your body gets used to your new blood pressure. Stand up slowly and carefully from a sitting or lying down position to avoid falling.

      • Let your provider know if you feel faint or pass out after taking enalapril (Vasotec). They might need to switch you to a different blood pressure medication.

        • Make sure to drink enough water to stay hydrated while you're taking enalapril (Vasotec), especially on hot days or after exercising. Your blood pressure might drop too much if you don't have enough fluids in your body. This can worsen dizziness and raise your risk of falls.

          • Enalapril (Vasotec) can interact with a lot of other medications. For example, you should avoid taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil), while taking enalapril (Vasotec) unless your provider says it's okay. This is because taking NSAIDs and enalapril (Vasotec) together might cause kidney problems. Make sure to tell your provider about all the medications you're taking before starting enalapril (Vasotec).

            • Make sure to have a healthy diet, including a low-salt diet, while taking enalapril (Vasotec) to help lower your blood pressure. Depending on your risk factors and other medical problems, it's possible you might be able to stop taking enalapril (Vasotec) if your blood pressure is well-controlled through healthy eating and exercise.

              • Only use an oral syringe or medication dose cup from the pharmacy to measure out your dose. Never use household spoons because they aren't accurate, which can make you take the wrong dose.

                • You can store the enalapril (Vasotec) liquid in the refrigerator until the expiration date on the bottle. Or, you can store it at room temperature for up to 2 months.

                  faqs

                  Frequently asked questions about Enalapril (Vasotec)

                  How do I know enalapril (Vasotec) is working for me?
                  You can track how well enalapril (Vasotec) is working for you by checking your blood pressure regularly at home. Most people will notice a drop in their blood pressure about an hour after they take enalapril (Vasotec), but it can take up to 4 to 6 hours to see the maximum benefits from this medication. Your provider might recommend for you to write down your blood pressure readings daily (or more than once a day) and bring them to your appointments. Based on how well enalapril (Vasotec) is controlling your blood pressure, your provider might need to adjust your dose several times before finding a dose that works best for you. It's important to take enalapril (Vasotec) regularly as directed in order to stay within your blood pressure goal.
                  Will enalapril (Vasotec) make me cough?
                  Dry cough is a well-known side effect of ACE-inhibitors, like enalapril (Vasotec). It's possible for you to get a cough from taking enalapril (Vasotec). This side effect can appear at any time during treatment. If you get a cough from enalapril (Vasotec), talk to your provider. They'll likely stop enalapril (Vasotec) and choose a different blood pressure medication that's much less likely to cause this side effect, such as an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB).
                  Does enalapril (Vasotec) lower my heart rate?
                  Enalapril (Vasotec) isn't known to cause low heart rate. But there have been reports of people who did experience high and low heart rates while taking this medication. It isn't clear whether these changes in heart rate are caused by enalapril (Vasotec). Ask your provider if you're experiencing low heart rate while taking enalapril (Vasotec).
                  Is enalapril (Vasotec) the same as lisinopril (Zestril)?
                  No, enalapril (Vasotec) and lisinopril (Zestril) aren't the same. While they both belong in the same medication class and work similarly well to lower blood pressure, there are some differences between them. (1) One difference is what conditions they're taken to treat. While both enalapril (Vasotec) and lisinopril (Zestril) can help with high blood pressure and heart failure, only lisinopril (Zestril) is approved to lower the risk of death after a heart attack. (2) Another difference is age cut-off for children. Enalapril (Vasotec) can be taken by children as young as 1 month old for blood pressure, whereas lisinopril (Zestril) is only for children ages 6 and older. Talk with your provider if you've any questions about enalapril (Vasotec) and lisinopril (Zestril).
                  What foods should I avoid while taking enalapril (Vasotec)?
                  Enalapril (Vasotec) doesn't have any specific food interactions. But if you have heart failure or high blood pressure, your provider will likely recommend that you avoid certain foods to prevent your condition from getting worse. For example, they might ask you to avoid or limit the amount of alcohol you drink because alcohol can raise your blood pressure. They'll likely ask you to avoid foods that are high in salt (e.g., canned foods, pickles, or preserved meats) because these can also worsen blood pressure and put you at higher risk for other conditions, like stroke or heart problems. Talk with your provider if you're not sure if you need to avoid or limit any specific food from your diet.
                  Is enalapril (Vasotec) a beta blocker?
                  No, enalapril (Vasotec) isn't a beta blocker. But rather, it belongs to a class of medication called ACE inhibitors. While both beta blockers and ACE inhibitors can help lower blood pressure, they do so in different ways. ACE inhibitors, like enalapril (Vasotec), are considered first-choice medications for blood pressure, but beta blockers are not. In general, your provider might consider a beta blocker for you only if you can't take ACE inhibitors or if you have certain medical conditions. Ask your provider if you have more questions about how enalapril (Vasotec) works or what blood pressure medications are the best for you.
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                  What are the risks and warnings for Enalapril (Vasotec)?

                  Enalapril (Vasotec) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                  risk-warning

                  Not for use during pregnancy

                  Enalapril (Vasotec) can cause severe and sometimes life-threatening harm to unborn babies so it shouldn't be used during pregnancy. If you find out that you're pregnant while taking enalapril (Vasotec), stop and let your provider know right away. If you're pregnant before starting enalapril (Vasotec) or thinking of becoming pregnant during treatment, discuss with your provider about safer options to treat your blood pressure.

                  risk-warning

                  Angioedema (swelling)

                  • Risk factors: Black people | Having angioedema in the past

                    People who take medications that contain an ACE inhibitor, like enalapril (Vasotec), can experience a rare, but serious side effect called angioedema. This involves swelling in different parts of the body, including the face, throat, and tongue. Swelling of the tongue or throat area can be potentially life-threatening, since it can make it difficult to breathe. Angioedema can happen at any time during treatment. You're more likely to experience angioedema if you're Black, an older adult, or female. Get medical attention immediately if you experience swelling in any of the areas mentioned above, stomach pain, or difficulty breathing. You'll have to stop taking enalapril (Vasotec) if this happens.

                    risk-warning

                    Low blood pressure

                    • Risk factors: Not enough fluid in your body | Having diarrhea or vomiting for a long time | Low salt levels in your body | Taking higher doses of diuretic medications

                      Sometimes, taking enalapril (Vasotec) can cause your blood pressure to drop too much. This can cause you to feel dizzy, tired, or lightheaded. This side effect is more common when you first start enalapril (Vasotec) or when the dose is raised. Make sure to stay well-hydrated. If your blood pressure drops too much and you feel dizzy, make sure to sit down slowly while holding onto something and let your provider know. If you fall and hit your head, get medical help right away. If you feel dizzy, lightheaded, faint, tired, or confused while taking enalapril (Vasotec), contact your provider right away.

                      risk-warning

                      Worsening kidney problems

                      • Risk factors: Severe heart failure | Kidney problems | Not enough fluid in your body | Taking other medications that can cause kidney damage | History of narrow heart valves (aortic stenosis)

                        Enalapril (Vasotec) is usually good for the kidneys. But in some cases it can make kidney problems worse. The risk is higher for people who have certain types of kidney problems, such as renal artery stenosis or very severe heart failure. Your provider might order lab tests every so often to make sure your kidneys are healthy and working properly. Your provider will check your kidneys before starting enalapril (Vasotec) and regularly as needed. Let your provider know if you're urinating less often than usual, as this could be a sign that your kidneys aren't working as well.

                        risk-warning

                        Heart problems due to high potassium

                        • Risk factors: Diabetes | Kidney problems | Taking other medications that also raise potassium

                          Enalapril (Vasotec) can raise the amount of potassium in your body, which can be dangerous. Your risk of developing high potassium is greater if you have diabetes, kidney problems, or are taking other medications that also raise potassium levels. For this reason, make sure your provider knows your full medical history and what medications you're taking before starting enalapril (Vasotec). If you experience signs of high potassium levels, such as nausea, muscle weakness, or abnormal heartbeat, tell your healthcare provider right away.

                          risk-warning

                          Liver problems

                          • Risk factors: History of liver problems | Drinking large amounts of alcohol

                            In some rare cases, people who took ACE inhibitors like enalapril (Vasotec) have developed a blocked bile duct. This condition can lead to liver problems or liver failure. Your provider might order blood tests to check your liver health from time to time. If you notice symptoms of liver problems, such as tiredness, stomach pain, or yellowing of your skin, let your provider know right away.

                            dosage

                            Enalapril (Vasotec) dosage forms

                            The average cost for 60 tablets of 2.5mg of Enalapril (Vasotec) is $6.00 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 85.69% off the average retail price of $41.93.
                            bottle of oral solution
                            Bottle of oral solution
                            DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                            150ml of 1mg/ml1 bottle$100.40$100.40
                            tablet
                            Tablet
                            DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                            2.5mg60 tablets$6.00$0.10
                            5mg90 tablets$15.30$0.17
                            10mg90 tablets$18.00$0.20
                            20mg90 tablets$20.70$0.23

                            Typical dosing for Enalapril (Vasotec)

                            High blood pressure

                            • Adults: The typical starting dose ranges from 2.5 mg to 5 mg by mouth once daily, depending on whether or not you're also taking a water pill. The maximum dose is 40 mg once daily.

                            • Children ages 1 month and older: Your child's provider will determine your child's dose based on their body weight. The typical starting dose is 0.08 mg/kg of body weight (up to 5 mg of enalapril) by mouth once daily. The maximum dose is 0.58 mg/kg (up to 40 mg of enalapril) daily.

                            Heart failure

                            • Adults: The typical recommended dose is 2.5 mg by mouth twice daily. The maximum recommended dose ranges from 10 mg to 20 mg twice daily, depending on your condition.

                            Your dose might be different if you have kidney problems

                            More on Enalapril (Vasotec) dosage forms

                            interactions

                            Interactions between Enalapril (Vasotec) and other drugs

                            Enalapril (Vasotec) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Enalapril (Vasotec). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                            Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                            Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                            Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

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                            How much does Enalapril (Vasotec) cost?

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                            contraindications-icon

                            Enalapril (Vasotec) contraindications

                            Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Enalapril (Vasotec) will not be safe for you to take.
                            alternatives

                            What are alternatives to Enalapril (Vasotec)?

                            There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Enalapril (Vasotec). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                            Enalapril (Vasotec)
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                            • High blood pressure

                            • Heart failure

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                            Used for:
                            • High blood pressure

                            • Heart failure

                            • Lower the risk for death after a heart attack

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                            • High blood pressure

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                            latest news

                            What is the latest news about Enalapril (Vasotec)?

                            images

                            Enalapril (Vasotec) images

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