Brand name: BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin)
Pronounced: dye-PROH-leen
Generic name: Betamethasone dipropionate
Other brand names: Diprosone
Why is BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) prescribed?

BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin), a synthetic cortisone-like steroid available in cream, gel, lotion, or ointment form, is used to treat certain itchy rashes and other inflammatory skin conditions. Its sister product Diprosone is available only as a cream.
Most important fact about BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin)

When you use BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin), you inevitably absorb some of the medication through your skin and into the bloodstream. Too much absorption can lead to unwanted side effects elsewhere in the body. To keep this problem to a minimum, avoid using large amounts of BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) over large areas, and do not cover it with airtight dressings such as plastic wrap or adhesive bandages.
How should you use BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin)?

Apply BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) in a thin film, exactly as prescribed by your doctor. A typical regimen is 1 or 2 applications per day. Do not use BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) for longer than prescribed.

BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) is for use only on the skin. Be careful to keep it out of your eyes.

Once you have applied BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin), never cover the skin with an airtight bandage or other tight dressing.

For a fungal or bacterial skin infection, you will need antifungal or antibacterial medication in addition to BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin). If improvement is not prompt, you should stop using BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) until the infection is visibly clearing.

If you miss a dose...

Apply it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule.

Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature.
BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) side effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. A possible side effect of BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) is stinging or burning of the skin where BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) is applied.

* Other side effects on the skin may include:
Acne-like eruptions, atrophy, "broken" capillaries (fine reddish lines), cracking or tightening, dryness, excess hair growth, infected hair follicles, inflammation, irritation, itching, prickly heat, rash, redness, sensitivity to touch

BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) can be absorbed and produce side effects elsewhere in the body; see the "Overdosage" section below.
Why should BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) not be prescribed?

Do not use BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) if you are sensitive to it or any other steroid medication.
Special warnings about BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin)

Do not use BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) to treat any condition other than the one for which it was prescribed.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin)

Do not use BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) with any other steroid-containing product. Such combinations increase the chance of absorption and side effects.
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

It is not known whether BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin), when applied to skin, causes any problem during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. It's considered best for pregnant women to avoid the product unless its possible benefits outweigh the potential risk. If it must be used, it should not be applied extensively, in large amounts, or for a long period of time.
Recommended dosage for BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin)

ADULTS
Overdosage

With copious or prolonged use of BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin), hormone absorbed into the bloodstream may cause high blood sugar, sugar in the urine, and a group of symptoms called Cushing's syndrome.

* Symptoms of Cushing's syndrome may include:
Acne, depression, excessive hair growth, high blood pressure, humped upper back, insomnia, moon-faced appearance, muscle weakness, obese trunk, paranoia, stretch marks, susceptibility to bruising, fractures, infections, retardation of growth, wasted limbs

Cushing's syndrome may also trigger the development of diabetes mellitus. Left uncorrected, the syndrome may become serious. If you suspect your use of BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) has led to this problem, seek medical attention immediately.