Lotensin

Common Name: benazepril HCl

How does Lotensin work?

Benazepril belongs to the class of medications called ACE inhibitors. It is used for the treatment of high blood pressure. It works by relaxing blood vessels and reducing the workload of the heart. Benazepril may be used in addition to diuretics (water pills) known as thiazide diuretics (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide) when one medication has not been found to control blood pressure satisfactorily. Your doctor may choose to use a medication for conditions other than the ones listed here. If you're unsure why you are taking this medication, contact your doctor.

How should I use Lotensin?

The recommended adult dose of benazepril ranges from 10 mg daily (to start) to 40 mg daily, with or without meals. The usual dose is 20 mg daily. Lower doses may be used for people who take other medications that lower blood pressure (e.g., diuretics) or people who have kidney disease. It may take up to two weeks to see the full effects of the medication. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones given here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. It is very important that this medication be taken on a regular schedule as prescribed by the doctor. If you miss a dose of this medication, take it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and carry on with your regular schedule. Do not double-up on doses.

What form(s) does Lotensin come in?

Lotensin® is available in strengths of 5 mg, 10 mg, and 20 mg. 5 mg: Each light-yellow, capsule-shaped, film-coated tablet, engraved "C" over "G" on one side and "L" over "V" on the other and scored across the middle on both sides, contains benazepril 5 mg. 10 mg: Each dark-yellow, capsule-shaped, film-coated tablet, engraved "C" over "G" on one side and "H" over "O" on the other and scored across the middle on both sides, contains benazepril 10 mg. 20 mg: Each reddish-orange, capsule-shaped, film-coated tablet, engraved "C" over "G" on one side and "H" over "P" on the other and scored across the middle on both sides, contains benazepril 20 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: cellulose compounds, colloidal silicon dioxide, cornstarch, hydrogenated castor oil, iron oxide, lactose, polyethylene glycol, povidone, talc, and titanium dioxide.

What should I NOT take with Lotensin?

This medication should not be taken by anyone who has: an allergy to benazepril or any ingredients of this medication a history of angioedema (a serious allergic reaction which causes the area around the throat and tongue to swell) after taking any medications known as ACE inhibitors (e.g., captopril, enalapril, fosinopril, lisinopril, ramipril)

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Lotensin?

Angioedema: Angioedema (a serious allergic reaction which causes the area around the throat and tongue to swell) may occur with ACE inhibitors, including benazepril. If you experience swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, stop taking benazepril at once and get immediate medical attention. Other medications known as ACE inhibitors should not be taken in the future. People who have had angioedema caused by other substances may be at increased risk of angioedema while receiving an ACE inhibitor. Low blood pressure: Occasionally, blood pressure drops too low after taking benazepril. This usually happens after the first or second dose or when the dose is increased. It is more likely to occur in those who take water pills, have a salt-restricted diet, are on dialysis, are suffering from diarrhea or vomiting, or have been sweating excessively and not drinking enough liquids. If low blood pressure causes you to faint or feel lightheaded, contact a doctor. Kidney function: Changes in kidney function have been seen in certain people who use benazepril (e.g., people with narrowed blood vessels in their kidneys, or those with severe congestive heart failure). The use of diuretics (water pills) or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may further increase the risk of kidney problems for those people already at risk. Fluid and electrolyte balance: Increases in blood levels of potassium occur in approximately 1.1% of patients receiving benazepril. This rarely causes problems, but potassium levels should be monitored by your doctor. Pregnancy: Pregnant women should not take this this medication. If you discover you are pregnant, stop taking benazepril at once and contact your doctor. Breast-feeding: Benazepril passes into breast milk. It should not be taken by nursing mothers. Children: The safety and effectiveness of benazepril for use by children have not been established. Its use by this age group is not recommended.