Dilvas-5 (Enalapril Maleate) tablets
The 5 mg dose is typically the starting dose — safe for initiation in most adults, with room to step up to higher doses as guided by your doctor.
How it works — step by step
Blocks ACE enzyme
Stops production of angiotensin II — a hormone that narrows blood vessels
Vessels relax & widen
Blood flows more freely with less resistance
Blood pressure drops
Heart works less hard; sustained pressure reduction
Starting dose : 5 mg once daily
Dosage form : Oral tablet
Drug class : ACE Inhibitor
Prescription : Required
What it's used for
High blood pressure (hypertension) — lowers and maintains blood pressure within safe ranges, reducing stroke and heart attack risk
Heart failure — reduces the workload on the heart and improves symptoms such as breathlessness and fatigue
Post-heart attack recovery — helps protect the heart muscle and prevent further damage after a myocardial infarction
Diabetic kidney disease — slows the progression of kidney damage in patients with diabetes and raised protein in the urine
Asymptomatic left ventricular dysfunction — used preventively in patients with a weakened heart that hasn't yet caused symptoms
How to take it
Take one tablet by mouth once or twice daily as directed by your doctor, with or without food, at the same time each day. Swallow whole with a glass of water. Do not stop taking Enalapril without consulting your doctor — blood pressure may rebound sharply.
Your doctor may start you on 5 mg and gradually increase your dose to 10 mg, 20 mg, or 40 mg depending on your response and condition. Always follow the prescribed dose — do not self-adjust.
Common side effects
Most side effects are mild and often settle with continued use. These may include:
About the cough: A dry, tickly cough is the most commonly reported side effect of all ACE inhibitors including Enalapril — affecting up to 1 in 10 patients. It is not harmful but can be bothersome. If it persists, inform your doctor who may switch you to an ARB (such as Losartan or Telmisartan) which does not cause this side effect.
Seek emergency medical help immediately if you experience swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (angioedema). This is rare but potentially life-threatening and requires you to stop Enalapril permanently.
Who should not take Enalapril 5 mg
Pregnant women — especially from the second trimester onwards; Enalapril can cause serious harm or death to the unborn baby
Patients with a history of angioedema caused by any ACE inhibitor or hereditary angioedema
Patients with known allergy to Enalapril or any ACE inhibitor
Patients taking Aliskiren who also have diabetes or kidney disease
Patients with severe narrowing of both kidney arteries (bilateral renal artery stenosis)
Important medicines to tell your doctor about
Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all medicines, supplements, and herbal products you currently take before starting Enalapril.
Tips to get the most from Enalapril
Take it at the same time every day to maintain steady blood pressure control
Rise slowly from sitting or lying positions to avoid dizziness from low blood pressure
Reduce salt intake and maintain a heart-friendly diet to enhance the medicine's effect
Attend follow-up appointments — your doctor may check your kidney function and potassium levels periodically
Storage
Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from direct light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.