Vaseretic

Common Name: enalapril maleate - hydrochlorothiazide

How does Vaseretic work?

This is a combination product that contains two medications used to lower high blood pressure. Enalapril belongs to a class of medications called ACE inhibitors and helps lower blood pressure by decreasing the workload on the heart. Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic or water pill that helps control blood pressure by getting rid of excess salt and water. Your doctor may choose to use this medication for other conditions not listed here. If you're unsure why you are taking this medication, contact your doctor.

How should I use Vaseretic?

Before starting the combination product, people should be started on the individual components of this medication. Once the desired dose of each medication is determined, the combination product can be substituted if possible. The recommended dose ranges from 1 to 2 tablets once daily of enalapril 10 mg - hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg. Many things can affect the dose of 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 above, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. It is very important that this medication be taken on a regular schedule as prescribed by the doctor. If you miss a dose of this medication take it as soon as you remember it. If it is more than six hours since your forgotten dose, skip the missed dose and carry on with your regular schedule. Do not double-up on doses.

What form(s) does Vaseretic come in?

Each red, squared, capsule-shaped tablet, engraved "720" on one side and "VASERETIC" on the other, contains enalapril maleate 10 mg and hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: cornstarch, lactose, magnesium stearate, red ferric oxide, and sodium bicarbonate.

What should I NOT take with Vaseretic?

This drug should not be taken by anyone who: is allergic to any of the ingredients of this product or to sulfa drugs has had angioedema (a serious allergic reaction that causes the area around the throat and tongue to swell) after taking any other of the class of drugs known as ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril, ramipril, captopril) cannot pass urine is pregnant

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Vaseretic?

Kidneys: Changes in kidney function have been seen in certain people taking this combination of drugs. Liver: This medication may affect liver function in certain people and should be used cautiously if liver function is impaired. Angioedema: Angioedema (a serious allergic reaction which causes the area around the throat and tongue to swell) may occur with ACE inhibitors, including this medication, although uncommonly. If you experience swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, you should 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 such as contained in this medication. 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 in those who take water pills, 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 light-headed, contact a doctor. 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: dryness of mouth thirst weakness lethargy drowsiness restlessness seizures confusion muscle pains or cramps muscular fatigue low blood pressure racing heartbeat nausea and vomiting Medical conditions: Hydrochlorothiazide may make it more difficult for people with diabetes to control their blood sugar. Dose adjustment of antidiabetic agents, including insulin, may be required. High levels of uric acid may occur in the blood or gout may be brought on in certain people receiving hydrochlorothiazide. Increases in cholesterol and triglyceride levels may occur when taking hydrochlorothiazide. Pregnancy: ACE inhibitors should not be taken by pregnant women. If you discover you are pregnant, you should stop taking this medication at once. Breast-feeding: Enalapril and hydrochlorothiazide are excreted in breast milk in trace amounts. Nursing mothers should stop breast-feeding while taking this medication. Children: The safety and effectiveness of the use of this product for children has not been established. Its use by them is not recommended.