Amlodipine And Benazepril
Conditions Treated
The combination of amlodipine and benazepril is used to treat high blood pressure. Amlodipine is in a class of medications called calcium channel blockers. It works by relaxing the blood vessels so the heart does not have to pump as hard. Benazepril is in a class of medications called angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It works by decreasing certain chemicals that tighten the blood vessels, so blood flows more smoothly.
Possible Side Effects
What Side Effects Can This Cause?
Amlodipine and benazepril may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- cough
- headache
- dizziness
- swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
Some side effects can be serious. The following symptoms are uncommon, but if you experience any of them, call your doctor immediately:
- swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, or eyes
- hoarseness
- difficulty swallowing or breathing
- fainting
- severe skin rash
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- more frequent or more severe chest pain
Usage Instructions
How Should This Medication Be Used
The combination of amlodipine and benazepril comes as a capsule to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day. To help you remember to take amlodipine and benazepril, take it around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take amlodipine and benazepril exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Amlodipine and benazepril controls high blood pressure but does not cure it. Continue to take amlodipine and benazepril even if you feel well. Do not stop taking amlodipine and benazepril without talking to your doctor.
What Dietary Instructions Should I Follow
Talk to your doctor before using salt substitutes containing potassium. If your doctor prescribes a low-salt or low-sodium diet, follow these directions carefully.
Are There Any Special Instructions
Before taking amlodipine and benazepril, tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to amlodipine (Norvasc), benazepril (Lotensin), captopril (Capoten), enalapril (Vasotec), fosinopril (Monopril), lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril), moexipril (Univasc), perindopril (Aceon), quinapril (Accupril), ramipril (Altace), trandolapril (Mavik), or any other medications. tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking. Be sure to mention any of the following: diuretics ('water pills'), lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid), and potassium supplements. Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects. tell your doctor if you have recently had severe diarrhea or vomiting and if you have or have ever had heart failure; lupus; scleroderma; heart, liver, or kidney disease; or diabetes. if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking amlodipine and benazepril.
Brand Names
Common Brand Names for This Medication
- Lotrel® (as a combination product containing Amlodipine Besylate and Benazepril Hydrochloride)
Overdose
What To Do In The Case of Emergency
In case of overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.
Forgotten Doses
What Should I Do If I Forget A Dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Additional Information
What Are the Storage Conditions for this Medication?
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
What Other Information Should I Know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your blood pressure should be checked regularly to determine your response to amlopidine and benazepril. Your doctor may order certain lab tests to check your body's response to amlodipine and benazepril. Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription. It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.