WARNING

Vaseretic is a medication that combines two active ingredients, enalapril and hydrochlorothiazide, and is commonly used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). As with any medication, there are potential risks and side effects associated with Vaseretic. It’s important to note that individual responses to medications can vary, and not everyone will experience these side effects. Here are some potential risks and side effects associated with Vaseretic:

• Hypotension (Low Blood Pressure): Vaseretic can cause a drop in blood pressure, leading to symptoms like dizziness, fainting, and lightheadedness. This is more likely to occur when initiating treatment or increasing the dose.
• Electrolyte Imbalance: The hydrochlorothiazide component of Vaseretic can cause an imbalance in electrolytes, particularly low levels of potassium. This may lead to symptoms such as muscle cramps, weakness, and irregular heartbeats.
• Kidney Impairment: Vaseretic can affect kidney function, especially in individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions. Regular monitoring of kidney function may be necessary.
• Allergic Reactions: Some people may be allergic to components of Vaseretic, leading to symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing. Seek medical attention if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction.
• Blood Disorders: Hydrochlorothiazide may cause changes in blood cell counts, leading to conditions like low levels of white blood cells (leukopenia) or platelets (thrombocytopenia).
• Liver Function: Enalapril may affect liver function, and in rare cases, it can lead to liver problems. Regular monitoring of liver function may be necessary.
• Angioedema: This is a rare but serious side effect associated with ACE inhibitors like enalapril, where there is swelling of the deeper layers of the skin, often around the eyes and lips. It can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.

It’s crucial to take Vaseretic exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider and to report any unusual or severe side effects promptly. Before starting or discontinuing any medication, including Vaseretic, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to discuss your medical history, potential risks, and benefits. This information is not exhaustive, and individual responses to medication can vary, so it’s essential to seek personalized medical advice.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Vaseretic is typically prescribed to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). Vaseretic is a prescription medication that contains two active ingredients: enalapril and hydrochlorothiazide. Enalapril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, and hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s some information on how Vaseretic is used:

• Dosage: The dosage of Vaseretic will vary depending on the specific needs of the individual patient. It is important to take the medication exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Administration: Vaseretic is usually taken orally with or without food. It is important to take the medication at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level of the drug in the body.
• Hydration: It’s important to maintain adequate hydration while taking Vaseretic, as hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic that increases urine production.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood pressure is essential while taking Vaseretic to ensure that it is effectively controlling hypertension.
• Precautions: Inform your healthcare provider about any other medications, supplements, or medical conditions you have before starting Vaseretic to avoid potential interactions or complications. Pregnant women should not use Vaseretic, especially during the second and third trimesters, as it may harm the unborn baby.
• Missed Dose: If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered. However, if it’s close to the next scheduled dose, the missed dose should be skipped.
• Overdose: If an overdose is suspected, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include extreme dizziness, weakness, or fainting.
• Side Effects: Common side effects may include dizziness, lightheadedness, or a persistent cough. If these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor. Serious side effects such as severe allergic reactions, kidney problems, or high levels of potassium in the blood may occur in some cases. Seek medical attention if you experience any unusual symptoms.

It’s crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and attend regular check-ups to monitor your blood pressure and ensure the medication is working effectively. Always consult with your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about the use of Vaseretic or any other medication.

Other uses for this medicine

Vaseretic is primarily prescribed for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure). However, healthcare providers may sometimes prescribe medications off-label for conditions not specifically approved by regulatory authorities. Off-label use of Vaseretic would be at the discretion of the prescribing doctor based on their clinical judgment.

What special precautions should I follow?

As for special precautions, it’s important to note the following:

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Vaseretic is not recommended during pregnancy, especially during the second and third trimesters, as it may cause harm to the developing fetus. If you become pregnant while taking Vaseretic, inform your healthcare provider immediately. It is not recommended for breastfeeding mothers, as both enalapril and hydrochlorothiazide can pass into breast milk.
• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider about any known allergies to enalapril, hydrochlorothiazide, or other ACE inhibitors and thiazide diuretics.
• Kidney Function: Vaseretic can affect kidney function. Inform your doctor if you have a history of kidney problems or if you are on dialysis.
• Electrolyte Imbalance: Hydrochlorothiazide, being a diuretic, can lead to electrolyte imbalances, including low potassium levels. Regular monitoring of electrolytes is usually recommended.
• Liver Disease: Inform your healthcare provider if you have a history of liver disease.
• Diabetes: Vaseretic may affect blood glucose levels, and adjustments to diabetes medications may be necessary. Regular monitoring of blood sugar is important.
• Surgery/Anesthesia: If you are scheduled for surgery or anesthesia, inform the medical staff that you are taking Vaseretic.
• Dehydration: Diuretics like hydrochlorothiazide can lead to dehydration. It’s important to maintain adequate fluid intake, especially in hot weather or during strenuous exercise.
• Dual Blockade of the Renin-Angiotensin System (RAS): Dual blockade of the RAS with ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), or aliskiren is associated with an increased risk of kidney dysfunction, hyperkalemia (high potassium levels), and low blood pressure. Avoid using Vaseretic with other agents that affect the RAS unless directed by your healthcare provider.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations and inform them of any medications, supplements, or medical conditions you have before starting Vaseretic or any other prescription medication. If you experience any side effects or have concerns about the medication, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Potassium-Rich Foods: Check with your doctor about dietary potassium restrictions, as ACE inhibitors like enalapril can increase potassium levels. High-potassium foods include bananas, oranges, tomatoes, and leafy green vegetables.
• Salt Intake: Follow any dietary recommendations regarding salt (sodium) intake. Controlling salt can help manage blood pressure.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s close to the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule.
• Double Dosing: Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Taking extra medication can lead to adverse effects.
• Consult Your Doctor: If you are unsure about what to do or if you miss multiple doses, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Vaseretic, like any medication, may cause side effects. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and some people may experience side effects that are not listed. If you are prescribed Vaseretic and have concerns about side effects, it’s recommended to discuss them with your healthcare provider. Common side effects of Vaseretic may include:

• Dizziness or Lightheadedness: This can occur, especially when standing up quickly. To minimize this, rise slowly from a sitting or lying position.
• Cough: A persistent dry cough may occur with the use of ACE inhibitors like enalapril.
• Increased Blood Potassium Levels: Enalapril may cause an increase in blood potassium levels. High potassium levels can be dangerous, so your doctor may monitor your potassium levels regularly.
• Low Blood Pressure: Especially after the first dose or an increase in dosage, there may be a risk of low blood pressure, causing symptoms such as dizziness or fainting.
• Electrolyte Imbalance: Hydrochlorothiazide, being a diuretic, can lead to electrolyte imbalances, including low sodium, potassium, and magnesium levels.
• Kidney Function Changes: Vaseretic can affect kidney function. Regular monitoring is usually recommended.
• Increased Blood Uric Acid Levels: This may lead to or worsen gout.
• Impaired Liver Function: Although rare, some individuals may experience changes in liver function.
• Skin Reactions: Skin rash or sensitivity to sunlight may occur.
• Blood Disorders: Hydrochlorothiazide may affect blood cell counts.
• Angioedema:Rarely, ACE inhibitors like enalapril can cause swelling of deeper layers of the skin, often around the eyes and lips.
• Other: Other potential side effects include nausea, abdominal pain, and changes in taste.

If you experience any severe or persistent side effects or notice any unusual symptoms, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider promptly. Additionally, if you have difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue (indicative of an allergic reaction), seek immediate medical attention.

This list is not exhaustive, and individual responses to medications can vary. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and report any concerns or side effects during your regular check-ups.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Vaseretic:

• Storage:
  • Store Vaseretic at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.
  • Keep the medication in its original container, tightly closed.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of expired or unused medication properly according to local guidelines or through a drug take-back program.
  • Do not flush medications down the toilet unless instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms, seek emergency medical attention. Symptoms of overdose may include extreme dizziness, weakness, or fainting. It’s important to contact a poison control center (1-800-222-1222 in the United States) for advice on the appropriate steps to take.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Attend regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor blood pressure and assess the effectiveness of Vaseretic.
• Blood Tests: Your doctor may order periodic blood tests to monitor electrolyte levels, kidney function, and other parameters.
• Medical Alert: Inform medical professionals, including dentists, about the medications you are taking, especially if undergoing surgery or dental procedures.
• Avoid Alcohol: Limit alcohol consumption while taking Vaseretic, as it may enhance the blood pressure-lowering effects and increase the risk of side effects.
• Dizziness: Be cautious when standing up, especially initially, as Vaseretic can cause dizziness. Avoid activities that require alertness until you know how the medication affects you.
• Avoid Salt Substitutes: Check with your healthcare provider before using salt substitutes or potassium supplements, as Vaseretic may affect potassium levels.
• Informing Healthcare Providers: Always inform healthcare providers about all medications, supplements, and medical conditions before starting or stopping Vaseretic.
• Changes in Health: Notify your healthcare provider if you experience significant changes in health, such as persistent cough, swelling, or unexplained weight changes.
• Pregnancy Planning:If you are planning to become pregnant or suspect you are pregnant, consult your healthcare provider. Vaseretic is generally not recommended during pregnancy.
• Driving and Machinery: Be cautious when driving or operating machinery until you know how Vaseretic affects you, especially if you experience dizziness.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions, read the medication guide provided with the prescription, and ask your pharmacist or doctor if you have any questions about the use, storage, or disposal of Vaseretic.