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Enalapril (Renitec) Tablet Dosage Guide in Pakistan

Enalapril (Renitec / Enapril) dosage varies by indication — hypertension, heart failure, and kidney protection each have different starting and target doses. This guide provides complete dosage information.

Compiled by the PakVita Editorial Team · AI-assisted drafting with editorial review · Sourced from DRAP, WHO, BNF · Last updated:

Dosage Guide

Quick Answer

Enalapril (Renitec / Enapril) adult starting dose for hypertension is typically 5mg once daily (2.5mg in elderly or volume-depleted patients). For heart failure, starting dose is 2.5mg twice daily, titrated slowly to 10mg twice daily. Renal function and potassium must be checked 1–2 weeks after starting and after each dose change. Never take more than prescribed — dose is always titrated by your doctor.

Dose at a Glance

Adult Dose

Hypertension: 5mg once daily start (2.5mg elderly/volume-depleted); Heart failure: 2.5mg twice daily start → titrate to 10mg twice daily; as prescribed

Once or twice daily — as prescribed by doctor

Max: 40mg per day (hypertension — divided doses); usually not needed above 20mg; heart failure max 20mg twice daily

Child Dose (Paediatric specialist guidance required)

Weight-based dose — specialist guidance required; not routinely used

As directed by specialist

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of enalapril, take it as soon as you remember — but if the next dose time is near, skip the missed dose. Never take a double dose. Take the next dose at the regular time.

Overdose

Enalapril overdose can cause severe hypotension (very low BP), renal impairment, and hyperkalemia. If an excessive dose is taken or severe dizziness/loss of consciousness occurs, contact a doctor or emergency services IMMEDIATELY. Keep the patient lying down and give fluids until medical help arrives.

Enalapril (Renitec) Tablet Dosage (Kitni leni hai)

Enalapril Tablet dosage varies by indication — always follow your doctor's instructions. Renal function and potassium monitoring is mandatory.

Adult Dose (Baalgon ke liye)

Hypertension (BP):

  • Starting dose: 5mg once daily
  • Usual dose: 10–20mg once daily
  • Max: 40mg/day (rarely needed)

Heart Failure (HFrEF):

  • Starting dose: 2.5mg twice daily — carefully
  • Target dose: 10mg twice daily — titrate over weeks
  • Max: 20mg twice daily

Post-MI / Diabetic Nephropathy:

  • Starting 2.5–5mg once daily → as tolerated
  • Check renal function and potassium 1–2 weeks after starting

Child Dose (Bachon ke liye)

Enalapril in children should only be used under specialist guidance — it is not for routine paediatric use.

Renal Dose Adjustment

  • eGFR 30–60: start with 2.5mg, monitor closely
  • eGFR < 30: start with 2.5mg, specialist guidance required
  • Bilateral renal artery stenosis: CONTRAINDICATED

How to Take (Kaise leni hai)

  • Once or twice daily — as directed by your doctor
  • At the same time each day
  • With or without food

Best Time to Take (Kab leni chahiye)

  • Morning — or at the time advised by your doctor
  • First dose: taking it at bedtime may be safer

With Food or Empty Stomach (Khali pait ya khane ke baad)

Enalapril is not affected by food — it can be taken on an empty stomach or with food, both are fine.

Missed Dose (Dose chhoot jaye to kya karein)

Take it as soon as you remember. If the next dose is close, skip the missed dose — never take a double dose.

Overdose (Zyada Dose)

Severe hypotension, renal failure, hyperkalemia risk — contact emergency services immediately.

Dose Summary Table

IndicationStarting DoseTarget DoseMax
Hypertension5mg OD (2.5mg elderly)10–20mg OD40mg/day
Heart Failure2.5mg BD10mg BD20mg BD
Post-MI / Nephropathy2.5–5mg ODAs toleratedPer doctor

The information in this guide is for educational purposes only. Always confirm the dose with your doctor or pharmacist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Enalapril ki dose kitni hoti hai?

For hypertension, start with 5mg once daily. For heart failure, start with 2.5mg twice daily, titrated up to 10mg twice daily. The dose is always titrated by your doctor — do not adjust it yourself.

Enalapril mein renal function check karna kyun zaroori hai?

Enalapril blocks the RAAS system, which can affect renal blood flow. Creatinine and potassium must be checked 1–2 weeks after starting. A slight rise in creatinine is usually acceptable; your doctor will decide.

Enalapril ki pehli dose mein chakkar kyun aata hai?

First-dose hypotension — enalapril can cause a sudden drop in BP, especially in volume-depleted patients (those on diuretics, low-salt diet, or dehydrated). That is why the starting dose is kept low and taking the first dose at bedtime may be safer.

Enalapril kitne time tak leni hoti hai?

For hypertension, treatment is indefinite (lifelong). For heart failure, it is indefinite — stopping it can be harmful. After an MI, it is long-term. Your doctor decides — do not stop it on your own.

Enalapril NSAID (ibuprofen/diclofenac) ke sath lena kyun dangerous hai?

Triple whammy: ACEi + diuretic + NSAID = serious risk of Acute Kidney Injury. Avoid ibuprofen/diclofenac with enalapril — paracetamol is a safer analgesic alternative. Always check with your doctor.

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Sources

  1. DRAP Registered Products Database — Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan
  2. WHO Model List of Essential Medicines, 23rd ed. (2023) — World Health Organization
  3. British National Formulary (BNF) — BMJ Group & Pharmaceutical Press

Medical disclaimer

This page is for educational use only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always confirm diagnosis, dose, and interactions with a qualified doctor or pharmacist before starting or changing any medicine.