Enalapril maleate, Hydrochlorothiazide

Brand names: Vaseretic

Why is Enalapril maleate, Hydrochlorothiazide prescribed?

Vaseretic is used in the treatment of high blood pressure. It combines an ACE inhibitor with a thiazide diuretic. Enalapril, the ACE inhibitor, works by preventing a chemical in your blood called angiotensin I from converting into a more potent form that increases salt and water retention in your body. Enalapril also enhances blood flow throughout your blood vessels. Hydrochlorothiazide, a diuretic, prompts your body to produce and eliminate more urine, which helps in lowering blood pressure.

Most important fact about Enalapril maleate, Hydrochlorothiazide

You must take Vaseretic regularly for it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may be several weeks before you get the full benefit of Vaseretic; and you must continue taking it even if you are feeling well. Vaseretic does not cure high blood pressure; it merely keeps it under control.

How should you take Enalapril maleate, Hydrochlorothiazide?

Take Enalapril maleate, Hydrochlorothiazide exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

• If you miss a dose...Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

• Storage instructions...Keep container tightly closed. Store at room temperature and protect from moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Vaseretic.

• Side effects may include:Cough, diarrhea, dizziness, drop in blood pressure upon standing up, fatigue, headache, impotence, low potassium levels (leading to symptoms such as dry mouth, excessive thirst, weak or irregular heartbeat, muscle pain or cramps), muscle cramps, nausea, rash, tingling or pins and needles, weakness

Why should Enalapril maleate, Hydrochlorothiazide not be prescribed?

If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to enalapril, hydrochlorothiazide, or similar drugs, or if you are sensitive to other sulfa drugs, you should not take Enalapril maleate, Hydrochlorothiazide.

If you have a history of angioedema (swelling of face, extremities, and throat) or inability to urinate, you should not take Enalapril maleate, Hydrochlorothiazide. Tell your doctor of all allergic reactions you have experienced.

Special warnings about Enalapril maleate, Hydrochlorothiazide

If you develop swelling of your face, eyes, lips, tongue, or throat; swelling of your arms and legs; or difficulty swallowing, you should contact your doctor immediately. You may need emergency treatment.

If you are taking bee or wasp venom to prevent an allergic reaction to stings, you may have a severe allergic reaction to Vaseretic.

If you develop chest pain, a sore throat, or fever you should contact your doctor immediately. It could indicate a more serious illness.

If you are taking Vaseretic, a complete assessment of your kidney function should be done. Kidney function should continue to be monitored. Some people on dialysis have had a severe allergic reaction to Vaseretic.

If you have liver disease or lupus erythematosus (a form of rheumatism), Vaseretic should be used with caution.

If your skin or the whites of your eyes turn yellow, stop taking Vaseretic and notify your doctor at once.

If you have severe congestive heart failure, you should be carefully watched for low blood pressure.

Excessive sweating, dehydration, severe diarrhea, or vomiting could cause you to lose too much water and cause your blood pressure to become too low. Be careful when exercising and in hot weather.

Vaseretic can cause some people to become drowsy or less alert. If it has this effect on you, driving or operating dangerous machinery or participating in any hazardous activity that requires full mental alertness is not recommended.

If you are diabetic, blood sugar levels should be monitored.

Vaseretic may increase your sensitivity to sunlight. Be careful to avoid overexposure.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Enalapril maleate, Hydrochlorothiazide

Vaseretic may intensify the effects of alcohol. Do not drink alcohol while taking Enalapril maleate, Hydrochlorothiazide.

If Vaseretic is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Vaseretic with the following:

AlcoholBarbiturates such as phenobarbitalCertain other antihypertensivesCorticosteroids such as prednisoneDigitalis (Lanoxin)InsulinLithium (Eskalith, Lithonate)Narcotics (Percocet)Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Naprosyn, Advil, and MotrinNorepinephrineOral antidiabetic drugs such as MicronasePotassium supplements (K-Lyte, K-Tab, others)Potassium-containing salt substitutesPotassium-sparing diuretics such as Midamor

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Vaseretic can cause birth defects, prematurity, and death to the newborn baby. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant and are taking Vaseretic, contact your doctor immediately to discuss the potential hazard to your unborn child. Vaseretic appears in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If Enalapril maleate, Hydrochlorothiazide is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment is finished.

Recommended dosage for Enalapril maleate, Hydrochlorothiazide

ADULTS

The doctor will adjust your dosage until your blood pressure is in the desired range. If you are taking the 5 milligrams enalapril/12.5 milligrams hydrochlorothiazide combination, the maximum daily dosage is 4 tablets. For the 10/25 combination, the maximum is 2 tablets.

CHILDREN

The safety and effectiveness of Vaseretic in children have not been established.

OLDER ADULTS

Your doctor will prescribe Vaseretic cautiously, starting with small doses.

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can cause symptoms of overdose. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

• Symptoms of a Vaseretic overdose may include:Dehydration, low blood pressure