| Common Brands | Lotensin |
|---|---|
|
Drug Class |
ACE Inhibitor |
|
Controlled Substance Classification |
Not a controlled medication |
|
Generic Status |
Lower-cost generic available |
|
Availability |
Prescription only |
Benazepril is administered to treat high blood pressure, although it can also be used in other cases of heart failure. It is an angiotensin-converting enzyme or ACE inhibitor that works with the relaxation of blood vessels to improve blood flow and lower pressures. It is usually prescribed when lifestyle changes only, such as diet or exercise, are not successful in managing hypertension. Benazepril is sold commercially under the brand name Lotensin, although it’s also available in generic form.
Being an ACE inhibitor, Benazepril belongs to a class of drugs that work by blocking the angiotensin-converting enzyme, which is responsible for converting angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a substance that causes blood vessels to constrict. Thus, through the blockade of this enzyme, Benazepril helps in relaxing blood vessels and reducing the workload on the heart.
Benazepril is usually administered orally, once or twice a day, according to your doctor’s prescription. It comes in tablet form and should be taken with a full glass of water.
Dosage: In the treatment of hypertension, the usual initial dose of Benazepril is 10 mg once daily. The dose can be titrated upward based on the patient’s response, and the maximum recommended dose is usually 40 mg a day.
For Heart Failure: The dosage to initiate treatment for heart failure may be different, but generally lower, starting at 5 mg once daily. Dosage will be titrated based on response.
With or Without Food: Benazepril can be administered with or without food. However, it should be taken consistently at the same time of day so a routine is established.
Benazepril works by inhibiting the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), which plays a key role in the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). The RAAS is responsible for regulating blood pressure, fluid balance, and vascular tone.
The normal process begins when the enzyme renin is released from the kidneys in response to low blood pressure or low blood volume. Renin acts on a protein called angiotensinogen to convert it into angiotensin I, which is then converted into angiotensin II by the ACE enzyme. Angiotensin II is a very potent vasoconstrictor that narrows blood vessels, increasing blood pressure.
It reduces the production of angiotensin II through inhibition of ACE. This action leads to vasodilation, causing blood pressure to drop and increasing the heart’s pumping efficiency. In essence, Benazepril decreases the workload of the heart, thus easing the task of the heart to pump blood around the body in conditions such as heart failure.
As with all medications, Benazepril can cause side effects. Common and serious side effects are listed below:
Common Side Effects:
Cough: A dry cough is among the common side effects with ACE inhibitors like Benazepril. This happens in only a few patients and may make it necessary to stop the medication.
Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Benazepril could cause a sudden drop in blood pressure, especially when an individual gets up from rest. This could lead to dizziness or lightheadedness.
Fatigue: Some people who take Benazepril feel tired for no apparent reason.
Headache: Mild headache is a minor side effect of Benazepril.
Serious Adverse Effects:
Angioedema: It’s a rare, severe manifestation of swelling in the face, lips, throat, or tongue. Angioedema leads to a lack of breath and necessitates immediate medical care.
Kidney Damage: Benazepril may rarely trigger kidney issues, like the increase in creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels, which is an indication of reduced kidney function.
Elevated Potassium: Potassium levels are increased in the body due to Benazepril, and this may cause serious disturbances of the heartbeat.
Low Blood Pressure: This is indeed the desired outcome in a patient with hypertension, but Benazepril can lower blood pressure too low in some instances, which causes dizziness or fainting.
Liver Problems: Very rarely, Benazepril can cause problems in the liver, such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) or abnormal results from tests on the liver.
Some precautions should be taken when using Benazepril, especially for individuals with certain pre-existing conditions:
Pregnancy: Benazepril is not to be used by pregnant women because it has the potential to harm a fetus. If pregnancy is intended or occurs during treatment, alternative medications should be prescribed.
Renal Impairment: Patients with renal disease require dose adjustment, and the renal function should be closely monitored.
Electrolyte Imbalance: Benazepril can lead to an imbalance in potassium and sodium, so blood tests should be carried out periodically on patients taking the drug.
Diuretics: Combining Benazepril with diuretics (water pills) can increase the risk of low blood pressure or dehydration, leading to dizziness, fainting, or electrolyte imbalances.
Potassium Supplements: Taking Benazepril with potassium supplements or salt substitutes that contain potassium can raise the risk of high potassium levels (hyperkalemia), which may cause heart problems.
NSAIDs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (like ibuprofen or naproxen) can reduce the effectiveness of Benazepril in lowering blood pressure and may also increase the risk of kidney problems.
Lithium: Combining Benazepril with lithium may increase the risk of lithium toxicity, which can cause symptoms like tremors, confusion, and seizures.
The dosage of Benazepril varies according to the condition being treated:
Hypertension: The usual starting dose is 10 mg once daily, with the dose gradually adjusted as needed. The maximum recommended dose is 40 mg per day.
Heart Failure: Initial dose is usually 5 mg, and the dose can be increased gradually according to patient response.
Renal Impairment: Patients with renal impairment require lower doses and monitoring of renal function.
Benazepril can only be obtained through prescription. A doctor will have to see the patient’s condition and medical history before being prescribed Benazepril. The side effects can be dangerous and negligible only if it is used according to the prescription.
What is Benazepril?
Benazepril is an oral medication classified as an ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) inhibitor, primarily used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure.
How does Benazepril work?
Benazepril works by relaxing blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure and improves blood flow by preventing the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a substance that constricts blood vessels.
What are the common uses of Benazepril?
Benazepril is commonly prescribed to manage high blood pressure (hypertension) and to help protect the kidneys in patients with diabetes.
What is the typical dosage of Benazepril?
The usual starting dose for adults is 10 mg once daily, which may be adjusted based on individual response, with a maximum dose of 40 mg per day.
Are there any common side effects associated with Benazepril?
Common side effects may include cough, dizziness, headache, fatigue, and elevated blood potassium levels.
Can Benazepril be taken with food?
Yes, Benazepril can be taken with or without food, but it is generally recommended to take it consistently either way for optimal results.
Is Benazepril safe during pregnancy?
Benazepril is not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters, due to potential harm to the developing fetus.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Benazepril?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule.
How does Benazepril affect kidney function?
Benazepril can affect kidney function, so your doctor may monitor your kidney health through blood tests while you are taking this medication.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Benazepril?
It’s advisable to limit alcohol intake while taking Benazepril, as it can further lower blood pressure and increase the risk of side effects.
Are there any serious side effects associated with Benazepril?
Serious side effects may include angioedema (swelling of the face, lips, or throat), severe allergic reactions, and kidney problems.
Can I take Benazepril if I have diabetes?
Yes, Benazepril can be beneficial for people with diabetes, as it can help protect kidney function in diabetic patients.
How long does it take for Benazepril to lower blood pressure?
While some effects may be seen within a few hours, the full benefits of Benazepril typically take several weeks of consistent use.
Do I need to monitor my blood pressure while taking Benazepril?
Yes, regular monitoring of blood pressure is important to ensure the medication is effectively controlling your hypertension.
Can Benazepril interact with other medications?
Yes, Benazepril can interact with other medications, including diuretics, potassium supplements, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
What should I tell my doctor before taking Benazepril?
Inform your doctor of any medical history, particularly kidney disease, heart problems, or previous allergic reactions to ACE inhibitors.
Is there a generic version of Benazepril?
Yes, Benazepril is available in generic form, which is usually less expensive than the brand-name options.
Can I stop taking Benazepril suddenly?
It’s important not to stop taking Benazepril suddenly without consulting your healthcare provider, as this may cause a rebound increase in blood pressure.
Is Benazepril safe for older adults?
Benazepril can be used in older adults, but they may be more sensitive to its effects and should be monitored closely by a healthcare provider.
Where can I find more information about Benazepril?
For more information, consult your healthcare provider, pharmacist, or trusted medical websites for details about Benazepril and its use.
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