Enalapril for Canine Kidney Failure

Enalapril maleate is a generic prescription medication that belongs to a class of drugs called ACE inhibitors. For dogs, veterinarians often prescribe enalapril for the treatment of kidney failure.

  1. Function

    • Enalapril works by interfering with the actions of a protein in the body called angiotensin-converting enzyme. The effect of blocking this enzyme is that the blood vessels in a dog's body widen, which improves kidney functioning.

    Dosage

    • The normal once or twice-daily dosage of enalapril for canine kidney failure is .25 mg of the medication for every pound a dog weighs, explains PetPlace.com.

    Risks

    • Possible side effects of enalapril for canine kidney failure include nausea, appetite loss, diarrhea, low blood pressure and elevated blood potassium levels, according to Mar Vista Animal Medical Center.

    Restrictions

    • Enalapril is not safe for use in the treatment of kidney failure in dogs also suffering from liver disease, cautions Mar Vista Animal Medical Center. The drug is also not safe for use in pregnant or nursing dogs.

    Considerations

    • Enalapril is not exclusively used to treat kidney failure in dogs. The drug can also be prescribed for the treatment of heart failure in hypertension in both humans and animals.