Enalapril

Generic Name: Enalapril
Common Names: Vasotec, Epaned

Enalapril, an ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) inhibitor, is often used to lower blood pressure in both human and veterinary medicine. This medication may also be used in veterinary practice as part of a heart failure therapeutic regimen. However, consumption can be toxic in pets if accidental ingestion (and thus the likelihood of overdose) occurs.

It is important to note that other ACE inhibitors (such as benazepril, lisinopril, captopril, ramipril and imidapril) carry similar toxicity risks.

Signs and symptoms of toxicity: Low blood pressure is the most common sign of toxicity. Other signs of toxicity include lack of energy, increased saliva production, increased heart rate, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, cough, bronchospasms, and kidney dysfunction. The onset and duration of symptoms depends upon the particular ACE inhibitor ingested.

Toxic consumption: In dogs, 100 mg/kg may be toxic and 200 mg/kg may cause death.

Dogs: Enalapril Toxic Consumption
X-Small Yorkie, Chihuahua	Small Pug, Boston Terrier, Poodle	Medium Beagle, Scottish Terrier	Large Boxer, Cocker Spaniel	X-Large Retriever, German Shepherd	XX-Large Great Dane, St. Bernard
1 – 10 lbs. (0.45 – 4.6 kg)	11 – 25 lbs. (5 – 11.4 kg)	26 – 40 lbs. (11.8 – 18.2 kg)	41 – 70 lbs. (18.6 – 31.8 kg)	71 – 90 lbs. (32.3 – 40.9 kg)	91 – 110 lbs. (41.4 – 50 kg)
> 44 mg	> 499 mg	> 1179 mg	> 1859 mg	> 3230 mg	> 4140 mg

References:
– Osweiler, G, et al. (2011). Blackwell’s five-minute veterinary consult clinical companion. Small Animal Toxicology. [Kindle version]. Retrieved from Amazon.com