Brand BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin)
Pronounced: Lo-TEN-sin
Generic name: Benazepril hydrochloride
Why is BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) prescribed?

BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) is used in the treatment of high blood pressure in adults and children 7 to 17 years old. It is effective when used alone or in combination with thiazide diuretics. BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) is in a family of drugs called ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) inhibitors. It works by preventing a chemical in your blood called angiotensin I from converting into a more potent form that increases salt and water retention in your body. BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) also enhances blood flow throughout your blood vessels.
Most important fact about BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin)

You must take BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) regularly for it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may be several weeks before you get the full benefit of BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin); and you must continue taking it even if you are feeling well. BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) does not cure high blood pressure; it merely keeps it under control.
How should you take BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin)?

BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) can be taken with or without food. Do not use salt substitutes containing potassium.

Take BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) exactly as prescribed. Suddenly stopping BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) could cause your blood pressure to increase.

If you miss a dose...

Take the forgotten dose 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. Never try to "catch up" by doubling the dose.

Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container. Protect from light.
BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) side effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin).

If you develop swelling of your face, around the lips, tongue, or throat; swelling of arms and legs; or difficulty swallowing, you should contact your doctor immediately. You may need emergency treatment. Be especially wary if you're an African American: Your chances of this type of reaction are higher. Severe allergic reactions are also more likely if you are being given bee or wasp venom to guard against future reactions to stings.

* Side effects may include:
Cough, dizziness, headache

Why should BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) not be prescribed?

If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) or other angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, do not take BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin).
Special warnings about BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin)

Your kidney function should be assessed when you start taking BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) and then monitored for the first few weeks.

If you have poor kidney function, there is a slight chance that BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) may reduce your supply of infection-fighting white blood cells. The risk of this problem rises if you also have a disease such as lupus. If you're on kidney dialysis, your chances of an allergic reaction to the drug are increased.

If you develop abdominal pain with or without nausea and vomiting, contact your doctor. ACE inhibitors such as BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) have been known to cause intestinal swelling.

BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) can cause low blood pressure, especially if you are also taking a diuretic. You may feel light-headed or faint, especially during the first few days of therapy. If these symptoms occur, contact your doctor. Your dosage may need to be adjusted or discontinued.

If you have congestive heart failure, BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) should be used with caution.

Do not use potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium without talking to your doctor first.

If you develop a sore throat or fever, you should contact your doctor immediately. It could indicate a more serious illness.

Excessive sweating, dehydration, severe diarrhea, or vomiting could make you lose too much water, causing your blood pressure to become too low.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin)

If BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) with the following:

Diuretics such as Lasix and HydroDIURIL
Lithium (Lithonate)
Potassium supplements such as Slow-K
Potassium-sparing diuretics such as Moduretic and Dyazide
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) can cause injury or death to developing and newborn babies, especially if taken during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant and are taking BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin), contact your doctor immediately to discuss the potential hazard to your unborn child. Minimal amounts of BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) appear in breast milk. If BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment with BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) is finished.
Recommended dosage for BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin)

ADULTS
Overdosage

Although there is no specific information available, a sudden drop in blood pressure would most likely be the primary symptom of BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) overdose. If you suspect a BENACE (Benazepril, Lotensin) overdose, seek medical attention immediately.