FDA approves liquid form of enalapril to treat BP in children, adults

DENVER — Silvergate Pharmaceuticals Inc. today announced that the Food and Drug Administration approved Epaned (enalapril maleate powder for oral solution) to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) in people one month and older. Enalapril is one of the most commonly prescribed medicines in the United States to treat high blood pressure.

"We're pleased to offer FDA-approved Epaned for people with high blood pressure, especially the small but significant group of pediatric patients who are affected by this disease," said Frank Segrave, president and CEO of Silvergate Pharmaceuticals Inc. "In developing Epaned, we were focused on what would most benefit children, such as great tasting flavor, ease of administration and consistent dosing. However, anyone who has difficulty swallowing enalapril tablets may respond well to Epaned."

Epaned enables accurate dosing for children who, until now, have relied on an adjusted adult dose. Epaned is available through an extensive network of pharmacies and a qualified mail-order service. Epaned will be reimbursed by most private insurance plans and state Medicaid programs.

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