VASOTEC (ENALAPRIL)

Vasotec Description

High blood pressure, also called hypertension, usually comes as a surprise diagnosis from your doctor. This is mainly due to the fact that there generally are no indicators to alert you that your health is at risk. A prescription for Vasotec, or generic Enalapril, will help lower your blood pressure, along with eating healthier, exercising, and kicking your cigarette habit. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

A busy lifestyle with fast-food, a stressful job, late nights, and an increasing waist-line can have you headed straight for a heart attack, stroke, or even kidney disease if you fail to take better care of yourself and have regular health exams.

This ACE Inhibitor Reduces the Action of a Potent Enzyme

Vasotec is classified as an angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. When taken as directed, Vasotec decreases the activity of the angiotensin converting enzyme in order to interfere with the creation of angiotensin II. This is a potent chemical that indirectly causes the muscles that surround your blood vessels to contract and make the vessels narrow, which increases the pressure exerted against the walls of the vessels. This causes the heart to work harder as it tries to supply tissues and other organs with a proper blood flow. As Vasotec reduces the action of angiotensin II, your blood vessels can relax and allow blood to flow easily to and from your heart.

Conditions Treated by Vasotec

Unless hypertension is diagnosed and treated, you increase your risk for a heart attack which can damage your heart muscle and result in heart failure as the pumping action is not strong enough to move blood around where it is needed. Your heart muscle may also be unable to relax properly to accommodate the return blood flow from your lungs.

This can present another problem where you start retaining fluid that can cause swelling in your ankles called edema. This situation can be prevented by taking better care of yourself and having regular check-ups. Although hypertension is a serious condition and no cure is available, it can be managed quite well so that you can carry out your daily routine for years to come.

Before You Take Vasotec

Your doctor may advise using an effective means of contraception as Vasotec can be harmful to an unborn baby. Ask your doctor if nursing your baby is safe. Discuss other medical conditions and allergies you have with your doctor and list any OTC or Rx medications you are taking, including herbal remedies and dietary or vitamin supplements. Then your doctor can determine if Vasotec is the right medicine for your situation. You will require regular blood pressure checks to make sure you are taking the dosage that will benefit you the most.

Vasotec Precautions and Recommendations

Until you know how Vasotec will affect you, avoid driving, operating machinery, or performing any tasks that could be considered unsafe if you are not alert. Tell your surgeon or dentist you are taking Vasotec before you undergo any medical or dental procedures as you may have to stop taking it for a specified time before and after either of these events. Avoid consuming any alcohol as it could increase any side effects or lower your pressure too much.

Possible Side Effects of Vasotec

• Dizziness
• Cough
• Short of breath
• Insomnia