What is Lotensin (Benazepril) prescribed for?

High Blood Pressure is the measure of the force of blood pushing against blood vessel walls. The heart pumps blood into the blood vessels, which carry the blood throughout your entire body. High blood pressure is dangerous because it makes the heart work hard to pump blood out to the body and contributes to the hardening of arteries, stroke, kidney disease and to heart failure.

Lotensin is a medication used in the treatment towards lowering high blood pressure. By lowering ones high blood pressure, once can help prevent heart attacks, strokes, and kidney problems. Lotensin is a ACE inhibitor, which is a heart medication that s dilate the blood vessels and increases the amount of blood your heart pumps and lowers blood pressure. It generally works by relaxing the blood vessels so the blood may flow at a much settling pace.

This medication is to be taken by mouth, with or without food, and usually once or twice a day.  Remember that the dosage is based on your medical condition and your response to the treatment. Use the medication on a regular basis the gain the most amount of benefit.

It may take 1 to 2 weeks before you gain the full benefit of this medication. Inform your doctor if your condition worsens or persists.

Before taking this medication, it is best to advise your doctor if you are allergic to Benazepril; or to other ACE inhibitors (such as lisinopril); or to any other medications or allergies in general.

Also it is best to notify your doctor of your medical history. Inform you doctor if you have had any serious health issues in the past, such as; history of an allergic reaction which included swelling of the face/lips/tongue/throat (angioedema), blood filtering procedures (such as LDL apheresis, dialysis), high level of potassium in the blood.

After you apply this drug, your vision may become temporarily blurred. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires clear vision until you are sure you can perform such activities safely.

Some of these side effects may occur when taking this medication, they are as follows; Dizziness, lightheadedness, drowsiness, or headache may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. Dry cough may also occur. However if any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor right away.

If you are experiencing any of these rare but very serious side effects, seek medical help right away. The side effects are as follows; fainting, symptoms of a high potassium blood level (such as muscle weakness, slow/irregular heartbeat).

Although benazepril may be used to prevent kidney problems or treat people who have kidney problems, it may also rarely cause serious kidney problems or make them worse. Your doctor will check your kidney function while you are taking benazepril. Tell your doctor right away if you have any signs of kidney problems such as a change in the amount of urine.

This drug may rarely cause serious (possibly fatal) liver problems. Tell your doctor right away if you notice any of the following rare but serious side effects: yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine, extreme tiredness, severe stomach/abdominal pain, persistent nausea/vomiting.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

What happens if I suddenly stop taking this medication?

There may be a relapse in symptoms as well as side effects. You should speak your doctor before stop taking this medication.

 What is the best dosage to take?

The diagnosis with your doctor will be able to determine the best dosage for your treatment. Work with your doctor closely for dosage and dosing schedules.

 What happens if I miss a dose?

You should take the missed dose as soon you realize you have forgotten. If the forgotten dose is closer to your next scheduled dose, take the next schedule dose to avoid overlapping in dose.

 What is the best way to store this medication?

This medication is stored at room temperature, and should be kept away from children and pets. Do not throw away this medication in the wastebasket. If you are uncertain how to dispose of this medication speak with your pharmacist for help in safely disposing of this medication.