enalaprilat

Enalaprilat is the active metabolite of enalapril, an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor used primarily for treating hypertension when oral therapy is not practical. It works by blocking the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, which helps relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure. As an ACE inhibitor, it prevents the formation of angiotensin II, a hormone that causes vasoconstriction. This mechanism helps blood vessels relax, improves blood flow, and reduces blood pressure. Enalaprilat injection is specifically indicated for the treatment of hypertension when oral therapy is not practical. It is administered intravenously and is marketed under the brand name Vasotec IV. Unlike enalapril, which is orally available, enalaprilat has poor oral bioavailability and is therefore only available as an injectable formulation. Enalaprilat was created to overcome limitations of captopril, the first ACE inhibitor. Like other ACE inhibitors, enalaprilat should not be used during pregnancy as it may harm the fetus.

Brand names

Vasotec IV

Other names

enalaprilat dihydrateenalaprilat