Enalapril Medications
Enalapril is an ACE inhibitor medication used to lower blood pressure and treat heart failure.
About Enalapril
Enalapril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor widely prescribed for hypertension, chronic heart failure, and protection of kidney function in diabetic patients. Belonging to the class of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) blockers, it lowers blood pressure by preventing the conversion of angiotensin I to the vasoconstrictor angiotensin II and by reducing aldosterone secretion. Commercially, Enalapril appears under brand names such as Vasotec and Renitec, while generic tablets are readily available. Beyond its approved uses, clinicians occasionally employ it off-label for conditions like resistant hypertension or certain forms of left ventricular hypertrophy when supported by clinical evidence.
What is Enalapril?
Enalapril is an ACE inhibitor that interrupts the RAAS cascade, a key regulator of blood volume and vascular tone. The Health Sciences Authority of Singapore approved Enalapril in 1991 for hypertension, later extending its indication to chronic heart failure and diabetic nephropathy. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted initial approval in 1984, and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) followed shortly after, confirming its safety and efficacy across multiple populations. At the molecular level, Enalapril binds irreversibly to the active site of ACE, preventing the formation of angiotensin II and the degradation of bradykinin, a vasodilatory peptide. The resulting vasodilation, reduced sodium retention, and lowered sympathetic activity translate into measurable blood-pressure reductions. Both branded tablets and inexpensive generic versions can be purchased from our online pharmacy, offering a cost-effective way to obtain this essential medication.
How Enalapril Works
Mechanism of Action
Enalapril is converted in the liver to its active metabolite, enalaprilat, which chelates the zinc ion in the ACE active site. By blocking this enzyme, the drug halts the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, decreasing systemic vascular resistance and aldosterone-mediated sodium reabsorption. Simultaneously, accumulation of bradykinin enhances nitric-oxide release, further relaxing blood vessels.
Therapeutic Effects
The inhibition of angiotensin II leads to three primary clinical outcomes: (1) reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, (2) decreased preload and afterload in heart failure, improving cardiac output, and (3) attenuation of intraglomerular hypertension, slowing the progression of diabetic nephropathy.
Onset and Duration
Blood-pressure lowering begins within 2 hours of the first dose, with a measurable effect after approximately 2 weeks of daily therapy. Peak antihypertensive benefit is typically observed after 4 to 6 weeks of consistent use. Enalapril’s anticoagulant effect persists for the dosing interval, which is usually once daily for hypertension and twice daily for heart-failure regimens.
Approved Uses and Applications
Approved Indications
- Hypertension: First-line therapy for adults; supported by the HSA and FDA labeling.
- Chronic Heart Failure: Used to improve symptoms and reduce mortality when combined with beta-blockers and diuretics.
- Diabetic Nephropathy: Demonstrated to slow the decline in glomerular filtration rate in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Off-Label Uses
Clinicians sometimes prescribe Enalapril for resistant hypertension, left-ventricular hypertrophy, and portal hypertension, provided that the patient’s condition aligns with evidence from peer-reviewed studies. These applications are not officially sanctioned by regulatory agencies.
Clinical Efficacy
In the HOPE trial, Enalapril reduced the combined endpoint of cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction, or stroke by 22 % compared with placebo (hazard ratio .78, 95 % CI .69-.88). The ALLHAT trial reported a 14 % greater hypertension control rate for Enalapril versus chlorthalidone after 6 months of therapy. Such data reinforce Enalapril’s role in reducing morbidity and mortality across diverse patient groups.
Buying Enalapril from Our Online Pharmacy
Why Choose Our Service
Accessing essential medicines can be challenging, especially when local pharmacies face stock constraints. Our online pharmacy bridges that gap, delivering genuine Enalapril directly to your doorstep while preserving confidentiality.
Brand Names and Generic Options
- Vasotec (brand) - 5 mg, 10 mg tablets
- Renitec (brand) - 20 mg tablets
- Generic Enalapril - available in 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg strengths
Choosing the generic version typically cuts the cost by up to 65 % without compromising regulatory quality.
Quality & Safety
We facilitate transactions through verified partners who operate under strict regulatory frameworks and comply with WHO Good Manufacturing Practices.
Pricing & Access
Competitive pricing structures, combined with a lifetime 10 % discount on all reorders, make long-term therapy affordable.
Discreet Delivery
Express shipping reaches most Singapore addresses within 7 days; standard delivery arrives in 3 weeks. Packages are sealed in neutral, tamper-evident envelopes to protect your privacy.
Dosing, Formulations & Administration
Available Formulations
Enalapril is marketed as film-coated tablets in 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg strengths. The active metabolite, enalaprilat, is not supplied as a stand-alone formulation in Singapore.
Typical Dosing Ranges
- Hypertension: Initiation often starts at 5 mg once daily; clinicians may increase to a maximum of 40 mg daily based on response.
- Heart Failure: Treatment usually begins at 2.5 mg twice daily, titrating up to 20 mg twice daily under close monitoring.
These ranges reflect common clinical practice; individualized dosing must be determined by a qualified healthcare professional.
Administration Guidelines
Enalapril can be taken with or without food; however, absorption is slightly enhanced when the tablet is swallowed with a full glass of water. Patients should avoid abrupt discontinuation, as this may precipitate rebound hypertension.
Note: A healthcare provider must establish the precise dose, schedule, and monitoring plan for each patient.
Safety Profile & Considerations
Common Side Effects
- Cough (dry, persistent) - reported in ≈10 % of users.
- Dizziness or light-headedness - occurs in ≈5 % of patients, especially after the first dose.
- Elevated serum potassium - seen in ≈4 % of individuals, particularly those with renal impairment or concomitant potassium-sparing agents.
Serious Adverse Events
- Angioedema: Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or airway requires immediate medical attention; incidence is <0.1 %.
- Severe hypotension: Rare but possible in patients initiating therapy at high doses or those on diuretics.
Contraindications
- History of hereditary or idiopathic angioedema.
- Concurrent use of aliskiren in patients with diabetes mellitus.
Drug Interactions
- CYP450 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole) can modestly increase Enalapril plasma levels.
- Potassium-rich supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., spironolactone) raise the risk of hyperkalaemia.
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may blunt antihypertensive effects and worsen renal function.
Special Populations
- Pregnancy: ACE inhibitors are contraindicated; exposure is associated with fetal renal dysplasia.
- Breastfeeding: Small amounts pass into milk; caution is advised.
- Elderly: Lower initial doses are recommended due to increased susceptibility to hypotension and renal impairment.
- Renal or hepatic impairment: Dose adjustments and close monitoring of electrolytes are essential.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How does Enalapril differ from Lisinopril? Enalapril is a prodrug that requires hepatic conversion to its active form, whereas Lisinopril is active in its administered state. This distinction can influence the onset of action and suitability for patients with liver disease.
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How long does Enalapril take to work for high blood pressure? Most patients notice a modest reduction within 2 weeks, with maximal effect typically achieved after 4-6 weeks of consistent dosing.
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What foods should I avoid while taking Enalapril? High-potassium foods-such as bananas, oranges, and potatoes-should be consumed in moderation, especially if your doctor monitors serum potassium levels.
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Can Enalapril cause a persistent cough, and what should I do? A dry cough occurs in about 1 of 10 patients. If it becomes bothersome, discuss alternative ACE inhibitors or an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) with your clinician.
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What are the signs of angioedema that require emergency care? Swelling of the lips, tongue, throat, or difficulty breathing are red-flag symptoms that demand immediate medical attention.
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Is it safe to combine Enalapril with over-the-counter pain relievers? NSAIDs like ibuprofen can reduce Enalapril’s blood-pressure-lowering effect and increase renal risk; acetaminophen is generally safer but should still be used under guidance.
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Does taking Enalapril with food affect its absorption? Food modestly delays absorption but does not significantly alter overall bioavailability; the medication can be taken with or without meals.
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What should I provide my doctor when discussing Enalapril?
- Complete list of current medications, including supplements and OTC products.
- History of kidney disease, liver disease, or electrolyte disorders.
- Any prior episodes of angioedema or persistent cough with ACE inhibitors.
- Blood-pressure goals and lifestyle factors that may influence therapy.
Disclaimer
The information provided about Enalapril is for general knowledge only. It does not replace professional medical consultation or the official prescribing information for medications containing this ingredient. All treatment decisions, including dosing, formulation selection, and monitoring, should be made under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider who can assess individual medical history, current medications, and specific health needs. We assume all readers are responsible adults capable of making informed decisions about their health. Our online pharmacy offers access to medications containing Enalapril for individuals who may have limited availability through traditional pharmacies, prescription-based insurance schemes, or who are seeking affordable generic alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting, changing, or discontinuing any medication containing Enalapril.

