Why should an elderly patient avoid taking enalapril with meals?

An elderly patient should avoid taking enalapril with meals because antihypertensive drugs, including enalapril, may worsen postprandial hypotension. Postprandial hypotension refers to a drop in blood pressure after eating, which can be particularly concerning in elderly patients who might already be more vulnerable to blood pressure fluctuations. When taken with meals, the body's normal digestive processes can lead to changes in blood flow and decreased blood pressure, compounding the effects of the medication and potentially increasing the risk of dizziness, falls, or fainting. Therefore, having enalapril on an empty stomach can help mitigate this risk and contribute to better overall blood pressure control and patient safety.