Enalapril / Benazepril


Prescription pillsWhat is Enalapril, Benazepril or Lisinopril?

Enalapril, Benazepril and Lisinopril are in a family of medications called Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitors or ACE inhibitors (ACEi). They prevent the activation of certain substances in the body that cause vasoconstriction (tightening of the blood vessels) of both arteries and veins, retention of salt and water, and fibrosis (scarring) within the heart muscle.

Uses/Indications

  • Treatment of congestive heart failure in both the dog and cat
  • Moderate and advanced forms of degenerative valve disease prior to the onset of congestive heart failure
  • Dilated cardiomyopathy
  • All forms of feline cardiomyopathies
  • Protein losing nephropathy (form of kidney disease)
  • Hypertension or high blood pressure (often as a secondary medication)

Adverse Effects

[please contact CVCA should any of these symptoms be noted]

  • Loss of appetite, vomiting or diarrhea
  • Low blood pressure resulting in lethargy or weakness
  • Increased potassium levels
  • Elevated kidney values
  • Coughing, excessive water intake, or elevations in liver tests are rarely seen

Client Information

  • Can be given with food and other cardiac medications as directed by CVCA
  • Given once a day in cats and usually twice a day in dogs
  • Can be given in pill form or reformulated into a flavored liquid
  • Close monitoring of blood pressure and blood chemistry profiles are recommended at least every 6 months
  • Please contact CVCA should your pet require anesthesia, as dose adjustments may be necessary

Interactions with Other Drugs

  • Increased risk of hypotension (low blood pressure) when used with beta blockers (atenolol) or other vasodilators (Amlodipine, diltiazem, hydralazine)
  • Increased risk for high potassium when used with Spironolactone or potassium supplements such as Tumil-K
  • Decreased efficacy as a vasodilator when used with Nonsteroidal anti-inflamatories (Rimadyl, Metacam, Deramaxx, etc)
  • The doctors at CVCA have taken this into account, however, please feel free to contact us regarding any concurrent medications your pet may be prescribed.

Standard Dosage Forms

Enalapril Maleate – 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, and 20mg

Benazepril HCL Oral Film Coated Tablets – 5mg, 10mg, 20mg, and 40mg

Lisinopril – 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, 20mg and 40mg

Synonyms

(Benazepril, Lotensin, Fortekor and Benaz- epril hydrochloride)

(Enalapril, Vasotec, Enacard and Enalapril Maleate)


Drug Handouts