Indications
Benazepril Hydrochloride is used to treat high blood pressure. In Bangladesh it is mostly available combined with Amlodipine in one tablet, for people whose blood pressure is not controlled by one medicine alone.
How It Works
Benazepril is an ACE inhibitor. In the liver it is changed into its active form, which blocks the enzyme that makes angiotensin II, a hormone that narrows blood vessels and makes the body hold salt and water. Blood vessels relax and blood pressure falls. When combined with Amlodipine, a calcium channel blocker that also widens blood vessels, the two work together.
Dosage and Administration
Take as prescribed, once a day at about the same time, with or without food. When used alone, adults usually start with 10 mg once daily, and the dose may be increased to 20 to 40 mg a day. Combination tablets contain fixed amounts of both medicines, and the strength is chosen by your doctor. People with kidney problems or taking diuretics usually start with a lower dose.
Interactions
Potassium supplements, potassium-containing salt substitutes and potassium-sparing diuretics such as Spironolactone can raise potassium too much. Painkillers such as Ibuprofen can reduce its effect and harm the kidneys. It can raise Lithium levels. Do not combine with Sacubitril, or with Aliskiren in diabetes or kidney disease. For combination tablets, Amlodipine levels can be raised by Clarithromycin, Ketoconazole and grapefruit juice, and it can raise Simvastatin levels.
Contraindications
Do not use if you are allergic to Benazepril, other ACE inhibitors or (for combination tablets) Amlodipine; if you have had angioedema; if you are pregnant; or if you have diabetes or kidney problems and take Aliskiren. Do not take within 36 hours of Sacubitril with Valsartan.
Side Effects
Common side effects include dry cough, dizziness, headache, tiredness and raised blood potassium. Combination tablets with Amlodipine may also cause ankle swelling and flushing.
Get urgent medical help if you have swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, fainting, severe stomach pain, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or much less urine than usual.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Do not use during pregnancy, as it can seriously harm the unborn baby. If you become pregnant, contact your doctor at once to change treatment. Ask your doctor before use while breastfeeding.
Precautions and Warnings
Your doctor will check kidney function and potassium. Take care when standing up, especially after the first doses or if you are dehydrated. Use with care in kidney artery narrowing, heart valve narrowing, liver disease, and before surgery.
Overdose
Overdose can cause a severe drop in blood pressure, dizziness, fainting and fast or slow heartbeat. Seek emergency help and lie the person down with legs raised.
Therapeutic Class
Antihypertensive, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.