What is "enalapril"

n. An angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor used in the treatment of hypertension and some types of chronic heart failure.

n. an ACE inhibitor (trade name Vasotec) that blocks the formation of angiotensin in the kidney and so results in vasodilation; administered after heart attacks [syn: Vasotec]

Enalapril (marketed as Vasotec in the US, Enaladex and Renitec in some other countries, and Enacard for veterinary use) is an angiotensin-converting-enzyme (ACE) inhibitor used in the treatment of hypertension, diabetic nephropathy, and some types of chronic heart failure.

ACE converts the peptide hormone angiotensin I to angiotensin II. One of the actions of angiotensin II is the vasoconstriction of blood vessels, resulting in an increase in blood pressure. ACE inhibitors such as enalapril prevent this effect. Enalapril has been shown to lower the death rate in systolic heart failure.

It is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines, the most important medications needed in a basic health system.