LOTENSIN

Who is Lotensin for ?

Benazepril is used to treat high blood pressure. It decreases certain chemicals that tighten the blood vessels, so blood flows more smoothly. this medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Benazepril is an angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor, or ACE-inhibitor. Benazepril lowers blood pressure by preventing the formation of angiotensin II, a hormone in the body that causes blood vessels to constrict or narrow. This narrowing of blood vessels due to the angiotensin II hormone is an important component of high blood pressure. Blocking the production of angiotensin II hormone causes blood vessels to relax or dilate, thus reducing blood pressure.

When should I be careful taking Lotensin ?

Do not take benazepril if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking benazepril, call your doctor immediately.

Before taking benazepril,

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to benazepril or any other drugs.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially diuretics ("water pills"), lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid), other medications for high blood pressure, potassium supplements, and vitamins.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart or kidney disease or diabetes.
• if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking benazepril.

Side Effects

Although side effects from benazepril are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• headache
• dizziness or lightheadedness
• excessive tiredness
• cough
• upset stomach
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• sore throat
• fever
• unusual bruising
• fast heartbeat
• excessive sweating

If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

• swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, arms, or legs
• difficulty breathing or swallowing
• fainting
• rash