Indications
Vaseretic is a prescription medication primarily used to treat hypertension, or high blood pressure, by helping to reduce the workload on the heart and blood vessels. It is fixed-dose combination medication that contains two active ingredients: enalapril maleate, an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, and hydrochlorothiazide, a diuretic. Vaseretic works by relaxing blood vessels, which helps to lower blood pressure.
Use and Dosage
Vaseretic comes in the form of tablet to take by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. The usual dosing schedule is once daily, and it is best to take Vaseretic at least 4 hours before your bedtime to avoid having to wake up to urinate. If you have questions about your dosing schedule, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
If you are taking cholestyramine or colestipol, take enalapril/hydrochlorothiazide at least 4 hours before or at least 4 to 6 hours after either of those drugs. It may take several weeks before you receive the full benefits of Vaseretic, keep taking it even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick. If your condition does not improve or worsen, such as if your blood pressure readings remain high or increase, tell your doctor.
Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take enalapril and hydrochlorothiazide exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Vaseretic controls high blood pressure but does not cure it. Continue to take enalapril and hydrochlorothiazide even if you feel well. Do not stop taking enalapril and hydrochlorothiazide without talking to your doctor.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Vaseretic (Enalapril/HCTZ):
- Blurred vision
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Dry cough
- Headache
- Increased sweating
- Lightheadedness
- Skin rash
- Tiredness as the body adjusts to the medication.
- Upset stomach
Serious Side Effects of Vaseretic (Enalapril/HCTZ):
- Blurred vision
- Burning in your eyes
- Chills
- Constipation
- Difficulty breathing
- Eye pain
- Feeling jittery
- Fever
- Flu-like symptoms
- Hives
- Increased thirst or urination
- Irregular heartbeats
- Joint pain and
- Leg cramps
- Lightheadedness
- Little or no urination
- Loss of movement
- Mouth sores
- Muscle pain or weakness
- Numbness or tingling
- Red or purple skin rash that spreads and causes blistering and peeling
- Seeing halos around lights
- Severe stomach pain
- Shortness of breath
- Skin pain
- Skin rash on your cheeks or arms that worsens in sunlight
- Sore throat
- Swelling in your feet or ankles
- Swelling of your face lips tongue or throat
- Tiredness
- Tunnel vision
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
Forms and Strength
Vaseretic (Enalapril/HCTZ) is available in the following forms and strength:
Vaseretic: Tablets
- 10/25 mg
Enalapril/HCTZ: Tablets
- 10/25 mg
- 5/12.5 mg
Cautions
- Vaseretic may cause low blood pressure, especially when starting treatment or increasing the dose. Patients should be monitored for signs of hypotension such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting.
- Vaseretic may cause electrolyte imbalances, particularly low levels of potassium in the blood. Patients should have their electrolyte levels checked periodically, especially if they have a history of congestive heart failure or liver disease.
- Vaseretic may interact with other medications, including other blood pressure medications, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and lithium. Patients should tell their doctor about all medications they are taking before starting Vaseretic.
- Vaseretic should be used with caution in patients with renal impairment. Patients with severely decreased renal function may require lower doses or a different medication.
- Vaseretic should not be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, as it may harm the developing fetus or nursing infant.
- Vaseretic may cause angioedema, which is a swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat that can be life-threatening. Patients should seek medical attention immediately if they experience any symptoms of angioedema.
- Vaseretic may cause photosensitivity, which is an increased sensitivity to sunlight. Patients should use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outside.
- Vaseretic may cause liver dysfunction, particularly in patients with preexisting liver disease. Patients should be monitored for signs of liver dysfunction such as jaundice, abdominal pain, and elevated liver enzymes.
- Vaseretic may cause allergic reactions in some patients, particularly those with a history of allergies to other ACE inhibitors or sulfonamide-derived medications.
- Vaseretic may cause coughing in some patients, particularly in those with a history of coughing while taking other ACE inhibitors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How should I take Vaseretic?
Vaseretic should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. It is usually taken once a day, with or without food. Patients should not stop taking Vaseretic without first talking to their doctor.
Can Vaseretic cause allergic reactions?
Yes, Vaseretic may cause allergic reactions in some patients, particularly those with a history of allergies to other ACE inhibitors or sulfonamide-derived medications.
What should I do if I experience side effects while taking Vaseretic?
Patients should talk to their doctor right away if they experience any severe or bothersome side effects while taking Vaseretic.
Is Vaseretic available in generic form?
Yes, Vaseretic is available in generic form as enalapril-hydrochlorothiazide.
Resources
- https://www.drugs.com/cdi/vaseretic.html
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601047.html
- https://www.rxlist.com/vaseretic-drug.htm
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/vaseretic
- https://www.goodrx.com/vaseretic/what-is
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2017/019221s047lbl.pdf
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-7120/vaseretic-oral/details
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