Enalapril Maleate 5 Mg Tablet Uses

Enalapril maleate 5 mg tablet is primarily used for the treatment of chronic hypertension (high blood pressure), heart failure, and asymptomatic left ventricular (LV) dysfunction with reduced ejection fraction (≤35%)^[1][3][5]. It is also prescribed to lower the risk of hospitalization and death in people with heart failure or those whose heart is not pumping blood effectively^[5]. By inhibiting the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), enalapril relaxes blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood and contributing to a reduction in blood pressure and cardiovascular risk^[1][5].

Besides these approved uses, enalapril is sometimes used off-label for conditions such as ST-elevated myocardial infarction (heart attack), non-ST–elevated acute coronary syndrome, stable coronary artery disease, post-transplant erythrocytosis, and proteinuric chronic kidney disease^[1].

Enalapril may also be recommended for patients with diabetes and hypertension, especially those with an increased urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (above 30 mg/g) or an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) below 60 mL/min/1.73 m², as it helps prevent diabetic nephropathy and further kidney damage^[1].

Common side effects of enalapril include:

• Dizziness and lightheadedness
• Low blood pressure (hypotension)
• Dry, tickly cough
• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Weakness
• Rash or itching
• Chest pain
• Sleep disturbances

These symptoms are usually mild and may go away as your body adjusts to the medication. If severe or persistent, consult your healthcare provider^[2][4][6].

Serious side effects that require immediate medical attention include:

• Angioedema (swelling of face, lips, tongue, throat, or extremities)
• Trouble breathing or swallowing
• Signs of liver problems (yellowing of skin/eyes)
• Signs of infection (fever, sore throat, chills, easy bruising)
• Kidney problems (swelling, changes in urination, blood in urine)
• Severe stomach pain or signs of pancreatitis
• Very low or high potassium levels (muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat)

If you experience any of these serious side effects, contact your doctor or emergency services immediately^[2][3][4][6].

References

• [1] Enalapril – StatPearls
• [2] Enalapril: Side Effects, Dosage, Uses, and More – Healthline
• [3] Enalapril Uses, Dosage, Side Effects
• [4] Enalapril: Side Effects, Uses, Dosage, Interactions, Warnings – RxList
• [5] Enalapril: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions – WebMD
• [6] Side effects of enalapril – NHS