Generic Vasotec

Vasotec is often generically prescribed as enalapril. It is most often used in the treatment of high blood pressure, but is also used when treating congestive heart failure and when trying to increase survival chances during or after a heart attack. Vasotec can be used for treating diabetes related kidney problems. This particular medication is known as an ACE inhibitor, which is an acronym for angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor.

A highly effective form of birth control is recommended for patients on Vasotec, as this medication has been proven to cause serious harm to a developing fetus. The American Food and Drug Administration rated Vasotec as a pregnancy risk category D. Women who are nursing, pregnant, or who could become pregnant should never take this medicine. Women who become pregnant while taking Vasotec should inform their physician immediately to stop drug therapy as well as contact a prenatal specialist.

Not all patients will be able to handle Vasotec. Medical examinations with a complete medical history are highly recommended before starting any patient on Vasotec. Patients with a medical history which includes diabetes, liver disease, heart disease, kidney disease, or any type of connective tissue disease (lupus, Marfan syndrome, schleroderma, etc) may not be able to take Vasotec or may require cautious monitoring while undergoing drug therapy with this medication.

While patients should be very careful to follow their dosing instructions, missed doses might occur. If the patient misses a dose, they should simply take the dose as soon as possible, unless it is almost time for the next dose. In this case, the patient should skip the missed dose and take the next regular dose. Patients should be advised against taking extra medication for any reason, as this can lead to an overdose.

An overdose of Vasotec requires urgent emergency medical care. If an overdose is suspected, the patient should be taken to the nearest emergency treatment facility. An overdose may present with symptoms such as light headedness, extreme dizziness, fainting, and in serious cases coma or death.

Some patients will have some side effects while taking Vasotec, though most side effects are mild. Patients should report mild side effects to the prescribing physician for evaluation of dosing requirements. Mild side effects may include loss of appetite or taste, dry mouth, cough, dizziness, headache, insomnia, sleepiness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, or persistent but mild itch.

Serious side effects require emergency medical treatment. Allergic reaction will present with hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the lips, face, mouth, tongue, or throat. Additional serious side effects may include severe light headedness and fainting, fever with chills or body aches like the flu, chest pain, edema, rapid swelling and weight gain, fast heart rate, pounding heart, paleness of the skin, easy bruising, excessive bleeding, and significant changes in urination patterns and ability.

All prescribing physicians should assess a thorough medical history complete with current medications before prescribing this medicine. Patients should always confer with the prescribing physician before taking any new medications regardless of whether they are prescription, over the counter, herbal, or vitamins. Medications with an established interaction history with Vasotec include potassium supplements, lithium, diuretics, salt substitutes containing potassium, aspirin, and NSAID pain relievers.

Side effects such as sweating, vomiting, and nausea can lead to dehydration. Patients should be encouraged to take in extra fluids while adjusting to the medicine. Vasotec may need to be suspended in the event of an upcoming surgical procedure.