Side Effects of Enalapril for Dogs

Canine blood pressure disease and heart problems can be treated or moderated by Enalapril for dogs. Enalapril is a prescription medicine that is effective at lowering elevated blood pressure and addressing other problems related to constricted arteries and blood vessels. It is a powerful medicine that should only be used under the supervision of a veterinarian, and it carries a range of potential side effects. Before beginning a treatment program using this ACE-inhibitor drug, it is wise to familiarize yourself with the adverse effects of the drug and also to inform your pet of any preexisting health conditions or other drugs that your pet is taking.

Overcorrection of Blood Pressure

Enalapril lowers blood pressure in your pet by decreasing the production of certain enzymes that act to limit blood flow by constricting arteries and blood vessels. If the dosage is incorrect and your pet's body receives more Elanapril than it needs, the level of enzyme production may be so low that your pet actually suffers from weak blood flow due to poor blood pressure. This situation may also arise when the dosage is appropriate but as an unanticipated side effect in your pet's system. For this reason, it is crucial that you take your pet to a veterinarian for regular examination and blood pressure readings while your dog is on Elanapril.

Kidney Failure

One of the most serious potential side effects of Enalapril is kidney failure. In rare cases, this drug may inhibit blood flow to the kidneys, and your pet's organs may be damaged as a result. This typically occurs only in dogs with preexisting kidney conditions or in pets that are already medicated with diuretic drugs. If your pet falls into either of these categories, consult with your veterinarian specifically about this issue before beginning a treatment program for blood pressure or heart disease that involves Enalapril.

Minor Side Effects

In addition to the adverse effects listed above, Enalapril does typically contribute to a range of side effects that occur more commonly. These include the following:

  • Weakness
  • Vomiting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Unusually increased or decreased rate of urination

It is important to take note of any symptoms that you observe in your pet as you provide him with Enalapril. Keep a log of the severity and duration of these symptoms and bring that record with you when you visit the veterinarian. These can help your vet to determine whether or not Enalapril is an appropriate remedy for your pet's condition.

In addition to Enalapril, there are a variety of other methods that veterinarians prescribe in order to reduce the symptoms of heart disease and to address the underlying condition. Lifestyle changes are often the most important of these alterations, and your veterinarian will typically recommend a specially formulated diet and an exercise regime for your pet. Between these methods and ACE-inhibitors like Enalapril, you and your vet can work together to reduce your pet's condition and increase his life expectancy and day-to-day happiness.

 

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