Effects of dosage and duration of enalapril usage on hematocrit levels in hemodialysis patients

Abstract

Objective : To study the effect of enalapril on the hematocrit (Het) levels of hemodialysis (HD) patients.

Method : A retrospective, before-after taking/stop taking enalapril crossover design was carried out in HD patients from the Kidney Foundation of Thailand, Bangkok. Het levels were evaluated after the patients had taken enalapril for 4, 8 and 12 months.

Result : A total of 57 patients were recruited into the study. The administration of 10 mg/day dosage of enalapril showed higher effect on the decrement of Het levels as compared to the 2.5 - 5.0 mg/day dosage of enalapril (p = 0.023). The decrements in Het level at 8 and 12 months were not significantly higher than that of the first four months.

Conclusion : Enalapril significantly caused decrement in Het level of HD patient especially at the first four months after taking. Duration of enalapril usage showed no effect.