Medication Search​ - Apo-Enalapril Maleate/HCTZ

Explore the medications listed in our database.

Apo-Enalapril Maleate/HCTZ

Common Name:

enalapril - hydrochlorothiazide

Email
Print
Email
Print

How does Apo-Enalapril Maleate/HCTZ work? What will it do for me?

This is a combination product that contains 2 medications used to lower high blood pressure: enalapril and hydrochlorothiazide. Enalapril belongs to a class of medications called angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and helps lower blood pressure by decreasing the workload on the heart. Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic (also called a water pill) that helps control blood pressure by getting rid of excess salt and water.

Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed in these drug information articles. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.

What form(s) does Apo-Enalapril Maleate/HCTZ come in?

Apo-Enalapril Maleate/HCTZ is no longer being manufactured for sale in Canada. For brands that may still be available, search under enalapril – hydrochlorothiazide. This article is being kept available for reference purposes only. If you are using this medication, speak with your doctor or pharmacist for information about your treatment options.

How should I use Apo-Enalapril Maleate/HCTZ?

The recommended dose ranges from 1 to 2 tablets once daily of enalapril 10 mg – hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg. Before starting the combination product, you should be started on the individual components of this medication. Once the desired dose of each medication is determined to achieve optimal effect on blood pressure, the combination product can be substituted if possible. Enalapril – hydrochlorothiazide may be taken with or without food. Try to take it at the same time each day.

Many things can affect the dose of a medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.

It is important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.

Who should NOT take Apo-Enalapril Maleate/HCTZ?

Do not take this medication if you:

  • are allergic to enalapril, hydrochlorothiazide, or any ingredients of this medication
  • are allergic to sulfa medications
  • are pregnant
  • are breast-feeding
  • cannot pass urine (also known as anuria)
  • have had angioedema (a serious allergic reaction that causes the area around the throat and tongue to swell) after taking any other medication from the class of medications known as ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril, ramipril, captopril)
  • have been diagnosed with hereditary angioedema
  • have galactose intolerance (a rare hereditary condition)
  • have diabetes or kidney disease and are taking aliskiren
  • are taking the medication sacubitril

What side effects are possible with Apo-Enalapril Maleate/HCTZ?

Many medications can cause side effects. A side effect is an unwanted response to a medication when it is taken in normal doses. Side effects can be mild or severe, temporary or permanent.

The side effects listed below are not experienced by everyone who takes this medication. If you are concerned about side effects, discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor.

The following side effects have been reported by at least 1% of people taking this medication. Many of these side effects can be managed, and some may go away on their own over time.

Contact your doctor if you experience these side effects and they are severe or bothersome. Your pharmacist may be able to advise you on managing side effects.

  • abdominal pain
  • cough (dry, persistent)
  • constipation
  • decreased appetite
  • drowsiness
  • erectile dysfunction (impotence)
  • fatigue
  • headache
  • increased sensitivity of skin to sunlight (skin rash, itching, redness or other discoloration of skin or severe sunburn after exposure to sunlight)
  • nausea
  • sore throat
  • unusual tiredness or fatigue
  • weakness

Although most of the side effects listed below don’t happen very often, they could lead to serious problems if you do not seek medical attention.

Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:

  • breathing difficulty, shortness of breath
  • dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting (signs of low blood pressure)
  • eye pain or vision changes
  • muscle cramps or pain
  • signs of anemia (low red blood cells; e.g., dizziness, pale skin, unusual tiredness or weakness, shortness of breath)
  • signs of bleeding (e.g., unusual nosebleeds, bruising, blood in urine, coughing blood, bleeding gums, cuts that don’t stop bleeding)
  • signs of infection (symptoms may include fever or chills, severe diarrhea, shortness of breath, prolonged dizziness, headache, stiff neck, weight loss, or listlessness)
  • signs of kidney problems (e.g., decreased urination, nausea, vomiting, swelling of legs or hands, fatigue)
  • signs of liver problems such as abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting, itching of skin, yellow eyes or skin
  • signs of pancreatitis (e.g., abdominal pain on the upper left side, back pain, nausea, fever, chills, rapid heartbeat, swollen abdomen)
  • signs of too much or too little potassium in the body
    • dry mouth
    • increased thirst
    • irregular heartbeat
    • mood or mental changes
    • muscle cramps or pain
    • numbness or tingling in hands, feet, or lips
    • weak pulse
    • weakness or heaviness of legs
  • skin rash (with or without itching), fever, or joint pain
  • symptoms of high blood sugar (e.g., frequent urination, increased thirst, excessive eating, unexplained weight loss, poor wound healing, infections, fruity breath odour)
  • tingling or burning sensation

Stop taking the medication and seek immediate medical attention if any of the following occur:

  • chest pain
  • symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including angioedema (e.g., hives; swelling of the face, mouth, hands, or feet; and difficulty breathing)
  • severe skin rash, including skin blistering and peeling (possibly with headache, fever, coughing, or aching before the rash begins)
  • symptoms of increased pressure in the eyes (e.g., decreased or blurred vision, eye pain, red eye, swelling of the eye)

Some people may experience side effects other than those listed. Check with your doctor if you notice any symptom that worries you while you are taking this medication.

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Apo-Enalapril Maleate/HCTZ?

Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use this medication.

HEALTH CANADA ADVISORY

January 31, 2019

Health Canada has issued new restrictions concerning the use of hydrochlorothiazide. To read the full Health Canada Advisory, visit Health Canada’s web site at www.hc-sc.gc.ca.

Allergic reaction: Some people who are allergic to sulfonamide medications also experience allergic reactions to hydrochlorothiazide. Before you take this medication, tell your doctor about any previous adverse reactions you have had to medications, especially to sulfonamide antibiotics or diabetes medications. Contact your doctor at once if you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as skin rash, itching, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face and throat.

Angioedema: Angioedema (a serious allergic reaction that causes the area around the throat and tongue to swell) may occur with ACE inhibitors, including this medication, although it is not common. If you experience swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, stop taking this medication at once and get immediate medical attention.

People who have had angioedema caused by other substances may be at increased risk of angioedema while receiving an ACE inhibitor like the one contained in this medication.

Blood disorders: In rare cases, a low white blood cell count has been reported by people taking this medication. Your doctor may occasionally monitor your level of white blood cells by performing blood tests. Low white blood cell levels may increase your risk for infection. If you notice any signs of infection (e.g., fever, sore throat), contact your doctor as soon as possible.

Cholesterol: An increase in cholesterol and triglyceride levels may occur when taking hydrochlorothiazide. Your doctor will monitor you for these changes while you are taking this medication.

Cough: People taking enalapril may develop a dry, persistent cough that usually disappears only after stopping or lowering their dose of enalapril. Inform your doctor of any cough that does not seem to be related to a usual cause.

Diabetes: This medication may make it more difficult for people who have diabetes to control their blood sugar. If you have diabetes, discuss with your doctor how this medication may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed. An adjustment to doses of antidiabetic medications may be required.

Fluid and electrolyte balance: The levels of electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, magnesium, and chloride can be reduced by the use of hydrochlorothiazide. Your doctor will periodically check to see whether these are in balance, and a potassium supplement may be necessary. Warning signs or symptoms of fluid and electrolyte imbalance include:

  • confusion
  • drowsiness
  • dry mouth
  • lethargy
  • low blood pressure
  • muscle pains or cramps
  • muscular fatigue
  • nausea and vomiting
  • racing heartbeat
  • restlessness
  • seizures
  • thirst
  • weakness

Gout: Hydrochlorothiazide may increase the level of uric acid in the body, causing symptoms of gout. If you have a history of gout, discuss with your doctor how this medication may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed. If you develop painful, warm, and swollen joints, contact your doctor.

Glaucoma: Rarely, hydrochlorothiazide can cause an increase in the pressure in the eyes (glaucoma). If you experience decreased sharpness of vision or eye pain shortly after starting to take this medication, contact your doctor immediately. This may be more likely to happen to people who have previously had sulfonamide or penicillin allergies.

Kidney function: Decreased kidney function or kidney disease can cause this medication to build up in the body, causing side effects.

This medication may also affect kidney function for certain people. Let your doctor know if you notice any decrease in urine output or increased swelling of the lower limbs, which suggests an accumulation of fluid due to decreased urination.

Changes in kidney function have been seen in certain people who take this medication. The use of other diuretics (water pills), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or aliskiren may further increase risk of kidney problems for those at risk for this problem. If you have kidney disease, renal artery stenosis (narrowing of blood vessels in the kidneys), or congestive heart failure, discuss with your doctor how this medication may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed.

Liver function: Liver disease or reduced liver function may cause this medication to build up in the body, causing side effects. This medication can also worsen liver function. If you have liver problems, discuss with your doctor how this medication may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed. Your doctor may want to test your liver function regularly with blood tests while you are taking this medication. If you notice any signs of liver problems (e.g., abdominal pain, itching of skin, yellow eyes or skin, loss of appetite, vomiting), contact your doctor immediately.

Low blood pressure: Occasionally, blood pressure drops too low after taking enalapril. This usually happens after the first or second dose or when the dose is increased. It is more likely to occur if you take water pills, such as aliskiren, have a salt-restricted diet, are on dialysis, are sweating excessively and not drinking enough fluids, or are suffering from diarrhea or vomiting. If low blood pressure causes you to faint or feel lightheaded, contact a doctor.

To reduce the risk of dizziness, get up slowly from a lying or sitting position. If low blood pressure causes you to faint or feel lightheaded, contact your doctor.

Lupus: Hydrochlorothiazide can cause the symptoms of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) to worsen. If you have SLE, discuss with your doctor how this medication may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed.

Potassium levels: Increases in blood levels of potassium occur for some people who take this medication or other ACE inhibitors. This rarely causes problems, but your doctor will likely want to monitor your potassium levels through blood tests. Avoid using salt substitutes that contain potassium while you are taking enalapril.

Skin cancer: Long-term use of hydrochlorothiazide may increase the risk of developing certain types of skin cancer. Hydrochlorothiazide is also known to increase sensitivity of the skin to the sun and increase the risk of severe sunburn. While you are taking this medication, protect your skin from the sun by using sunscreen with at least 30 SPF and covering exposed skin during peak hours of sunlight. Notify your doctor as soon as possible if you notice any new skin lesions or moles, or changes to existing skin lesions.


Surgery:
 It is important that your physician and anesthesiologist know that you are taking this medication before you undergo any surgical procedures requiring general anesthesia.

Pregnancy: ACE inhibitors such as enalapril may cause severe harm or death to the developing baby if taken by the mother during pregnancy and should not be taken by pregnant women. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, stop taking this medication at once and contact your doctor immediately.

Breast-feeding: These medications pass into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking enalapril and hydrochlorothiazide, it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.

Children: The safety and effectiveness of using this medication have not been established for children. Children should not take this medication.

What other drugs could interact with Apo-Enalapril Maleate/HCTZ?

There may be an interaction between enalapril – hydrochlorothiazide and any of the following:

  • acetylsalicylic acid (ASA)
  • aclidinium
  • alcohol
  • aldesleukin
  • aliskiren
  • allopurinol
  • alpha-adrenergic blocking agents (e.g., alfuzosin, doxazosin, prazosin, terazosin)
  • alpha agonists (e.g., clonidine, methyldopa)
  • amifostine
  • amphetamines (e.g., dextroamphetamine, lisdexamfetamine)
  • angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs; losartan, valsartan, candesartan)
  • antacids (e.g., aluminum hydroxide, calcium carbonate, magnesium hydroxide)
  • antihistamines (e.g., cetirizine, doxylamine, diphenhydramine, hydroxyzine, loratadine)
  • antipsychotics (e.g., chlorpromazine, clozapine, haloperidol, olanzapine, quetiapine, risperidone)
  • atropine
  • azathioprine
  • azelastine
  • barbiturates (e.g., butalbital, pentobarbital, phenobarbital)
  • belladonna
  • benztropine
  • beta-2 agonists (e.g., salbutamol, formoterol, terbutaline)
  • beta-blockers (e.g., atenolol, carvedilol, propranolol)
  • brimonidine
  • calcitriol
  • calcium channel blockers (e.g., amlodipine, diltiazem, nifedipine, verapamil)
  • calcium supplements (e.g., calcium carbonate, calcium citrate)
  • carbamazepine
  • cholestyramine
  • colesevelam
  • colestipol
  • conivaptan
  • cyclobenzaprine
  • cyclophosphamide
  • darifenacin
  • decongestant cold medications (e.g., phenylephrine, pseudoephedrine)
  • decongestant eye drops and nose sprays (e.g., naphazoline, oxymetazoline, xylometazoline)
  • dexmethylphenidate
  • diabetes medications (e.g., chlorpropamide, glyburide, insulin, metformin, rosiglitazone)
  • diazoxide
  • digoxin
  • disopyramide
  • diuretics (water pills; e.g., furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide, triamterene)
  • dofetilide
  • drospirenone
  • eplerenone
  • everolimus
  • lithium
  • flavoxate
  • ginger
  • ginseng
  • glycopyrrolate
  • grass pollen allergen
  • guanfacine
  • heparin
  • ipratropium
  • inhaled corticosteroids (e.g., budesonide, ciclesonide, fluticasone)
  • ivabradine
  • ketotifen
  • levodopa
  • licorice
  • lithium
  • low-molecular-weight heparins (LMWHs; e.g. dalteparin, enoxaparin, tinzaparin)
  • medications that increase blood levels of potassium (e.g., potassium chloride, salt substitutes containing potassium)
  • methotrexate
  • methylphenidate
  • monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs; e.g., moclobemide, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, tranylcypromine)
  • multivitamin/mineral supplements containing vitamins A, D, and E
  • narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine, fentanyl, morphine)
  • nitrates (e.g., isosorbide dinitrate,  isosorbide mononitrate, nitroglycerin)
  • nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs; e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)
  • obinituzumab
  • oral corticosteroids (e.g., dexamethasone, hydrocortisone, prednisone)
  • orphenadrine
  • other angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs; captopril, ramipril)
  • oxcarbazepine
  • oxybutynin
  • pentoxifylline
  • phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (e.g., sildenafil, tadalafil, vardenafil)
  • porfimer
  • pregabalin
  • quinidine
  • quinine
  • riociguat
  • ropinirole
  • sacubitril
  • scopolamine
  • selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs; e.g., citalopram, fluoxetine, paroxetine, sertraline)
  • sirolimus
  • sodium phosphates
  • solifenacin
  • temsirolimus
  • tiotropium
  • tizanidine
  • tolterodine
  • tolvaptan
  • topiramate
  • tramadol
  • tretinoin
  • tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline, clomipramine, desipramine, trimipramine)
  • trimethoprim
  • umeclidinium
  • verteporfin
  • vitamin D analogues (e.g., alfacalcidol, calcitriol, cholecalciferol)
  • vitamin E
  • yohimbine

If you are taking any of these medications, speak with your doctor or pharmacist. Depending on your specific circumstances, your doctor may want you to:

  • stop taking one of the medications,
  • change one of the medications to another,
  • change how you are taking one or both of the medications, or
  • leave everything as is.

An interaction between two medications does not always mean that you must stop taking one of them. Speak to your doctor about how any drug interactions are being managed or should be managed.

Medications other than those listed above may interact with this medication. Tell your doctor or prescriber about all prescription, over-the-counter (non-prescription), and herbal medications you are taking. Also tell them about any supplements you take. Since caffeine, alcohol, the nicotine from cigarettes, or street drugs can affect the action of many medications, you should let your prescriber know if you use them.

All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2021. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/Apo-Enalapril-MaleateHCTZ