Enalapril
ENALAPRIL
Overview:
Enalapril is a medicine that belongs to the ACE inhibitor class, mainly used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. It works by relaxing blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood and reducing strain on the heart and circulation. Doctors often prescribe it to lower the risk of strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems, especially in people with hypertension or diabetes.
Classification: Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitor
Uses:
- Treats high blood pressure (hypertension)
- Helps manage heart failure
- Used to improve survival after a heart attack
- Protects the kidneys in people with diabetes or hypertension
- Reduces risk of strokes and heart-related problems in high-risk patients
How it works:
Enalapril works by blocking certain body chemicals that normally make blood vessels tighten and hold onto extra salt and water. When these effects are stopped, the blood vessels relax, fluid buildup decreases, and the heart doesn’t have to work as hard. This brings down blood pressure and supports smoother blood flow from the heart.
Dosage: As prescribed by your doctor.
Side Effects:
- Dry, persistent cough
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Headache
- Fatigue or weakness
- Nausea or stomach upset
- Skin rash or itching
- Increased potassium levels
Precautions:
- Use with caution if you have kidney problems, liver disease, or heart conditions.
- May increase potassium levels, so avoid taking extra potassium or salt substitutes unless advised by your doctor.
- Not safe during pregnancy (can harm the baby) or breastfeeding.
- Can cause low blood pressure, especially after the first dose — stand up slowly to avoid dizziness.
- Watch for signs of allergic reaction or swelling (angioedema) and seek help immediately.
Disclaimer:This content is for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical advice and proper dosage.
Hydrochlorothiazide
HYDROCHLOROTHIAZIDE
Overview:
Hydrochlorothiazide is a medication used to treat high blood pressure and fluid retention (edema). It belongs to a group of drugs called thiazide diuretics, which help the body get rid of extra salt and water through urine.
Classification:Thiazide diuretics
Uses:
Hydrochlorothiazide is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and swelling (edema) caused by problems like heart failure, liver disease, or kidney disease. It helps remove extra salt and water from the body through urine. It is also used to help prevent kidney stones and manage high calcium levels in the urine.
How it works:
Hydrochlorothiazide works by acting on the distal part of the kidney tubules to block the reabsorption of sodium and chloride. This causes more salt and water to be passed out in the urine, which helps to reduce blood volume and lower blood pressure. It also leads to some loss of potassium. Over time, it helps relax blood vessels, which further helps to control high blood pressure.
Dosage:
As prescribed by your doctor.
Side effects:
Increased urination
Weakness or tiredness
Headache
Dizziness
Muscle cramps
Precautions:
Before taking hydrochlorothiazide, tell your doctor if you have problems like kidney, liver, heart disease, diabetes, or gout. This medicine can change your blood salt or sugar levels, so you may need some tests. It might make you feel dizzy, so get up slowly. Avoid too much alcohol, and don’t use it during pregnancy or breastfeeding without your doctor’s advice. Also, tell your doctor about any other medicines you are taking.
Disclaimer:
This content is for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical advice and proper dosage
