Hydrochlorothiazide and enalapril

Vaseretic

GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes

The side effects of the Vaseretic are similar to the side effects of the individual component drugs:

• A dry, persistent cough has been reported commonly with the use of ACE inhibitors. Coughing resolves after discontinuing the medication.

Other side effects include of ACE inhibitors include:

• abdominal pain,
• diarrhea,
• dizziness,
• fatigue,
• headache,
• loss of appetite,
• nausea and vomiting,
• chest pain,
• fainting,
• sexual dysfunction,
• increased potassium levels,
• numbness or tingling in the hands or feet,
• rash, and
• a sore or swollen throat.

In rare instances

• liver dysfunction and skin yellowing (jaundice) have been reported with ACE inhibitors.
• In susceptible individuals ACE inhibitors may reduce kidney function. Enalapril may cause hypersensitivity (allergic) reactions and angioedema (swelling of face, lips, tongue, throat).

Side effects of HCTZ include:

• weakness,
• low blood pressure,
• sunlight sensitivity,
• impotence,
• nausea,
• abdominal pain,
• electrolyte disturbances,
• pancreatitis,
• jaundice,
• anaphylaxis, and
• rashes, both mild and severe.

Patients allergic to sulfa may also be allergic to HCTZ because of the similarity in the chemical structure of the medications.

ACE inhibitors, including enalapril, should be avoided in nursing mothers.

Drinking alcohol can further lower your blood pressure and may increase certain side effects of this medicine.

Avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated during exercise and in hot weather. Follow your doctor's instructions about the type and amount of liquids you should drink. In some cases, drinking too much liquid can be as unsafe as not drinking enough.

Do not use potassium supplements or salt substitutes while you are taking hydrochlorothiazide and enalapril, unless your doctor has told you to.

Avoid getting up too fast from a sitting or lying position, or you may feel dizzy. Get up slowly and steady yourself to prevent a fall.

Other drugs may interact with hydrochlorothiazide and enalapril, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.