Carlon® (Enalapril) 5 mg / 10 mg

What is Carlon® (Enalapril)?

Carlon® (Enalapril) is a prescription medication used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and chronic heart failure.
It works by blocking a specific enzyme called angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), which helps relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure.
This action reduces strain on the heart and improves blood flow, making it beneficial for individuals with heart-related conditions.
Carlon® is available in tablet form in doses of 5 mg and 10 mg.

How does Carlon® work?

Carlon® belongs to a class of drugs called ACE inhibitors, which affect the renin-angiotensin system.
It prevents the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a substance that causes blood vessels to constrict.
By inhibiting this process, Carlon® reduces blood pressure and eases the workload on the heart.
The active form of the drug, enalaprilat, helps dilate blood vessels, improving circulation and reducing resistance in the body's arterial system.

What are the benefits of taking Carlon®?

The main benefits of Carlon® include its ability to:

• Lower blood pressure in people with hypertension, reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
• Improve heart function in individuals with chronic heart failure.
• Prevent complications in those with asymptomatic left ventricular dysfunction, a condition that can lead to heart failure over time.
• Improve kidney function in people with conditions like diabetic nephropathy by reducing the strain on the kidneys.

What are the common side effects?

Some common side effects of Carlon® may include:

• Dizziness or headache
• Fatigue
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dry mouth
• Cough, which is often related to ACE inhibitors
• Stomach discomfort, such as diarrhea or constipation

In rare cases, patients may experience:

• Low blood pressure
• Elevated liver enzymes
• Heart palpitations
• Angioedema (swelling of the face or throat)
• Skin reactions, like rashes or itching

How should you take Carlon®?

Carlon® is typically taken once a day, with or without food.
The initial dose for treating high blood pressure is often 5 mg daily, with a maintenance dose of 10-20 mg depending on the patient's response.
For patients with chronic heart failure, the starting dose is 2.5 mg, and it can be increased based on tolerance, up to a maximum of 40 mg per day.
For individuals undergoing dialysis, a special dosage regimen is required, often starting at 2.5 mg on dialysis days.

Are there any special precautions?

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Carlon® is not recommended for pregnant women or those breastfeeding.
• Potassium levels: Carlon® may increase potassium levels in the blood, especially in individuals with kidney disease.
• Kidney function: Carlon® should be used with caution in patients with impaired kidney function, as it can affect kidney health.
• Driving and machinery: Some people may feel dizzy when taking Carlon®, so caution is advised when driving or operating heavy machinery.

What should you do in case of overdose?

Symptoms of overdose may include severe low blood pressure.
If an overdose occurs, seek immediate medical attention, and treatment may involve administering intravenous saline solutions.
Hemodialysis can help remove the drug from the bloodstream in cases of severe overdose.