The following information is a summary about Lotensin. It is not intended to replace a doctor's instructions.
Why is this Lotensin medication prescribed?
Lotensin/Benazepril is used to treat high blood pressure. Lotensin decreases certain chemicals that tighten the blood vessels, so blood flows more smoothly.
This Lotensin medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or Lotensin pharmacist for more Lotensin information.
How should this Lotensin medicine be used?
Lotensin/Benazepril comes as a tablet to take by mouth. Lotensin is usually taken once or twice a day. Follow the Lotensin directions on your Lotensin prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or Lotensin pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Lotensin/benazepril exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of Lotensin or take Lotensin more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Lotensin/Benazepril controls high blood pressure but does not cure it. Continue to take Lotensin/benazepril even if you feel well. Do not stop taking Lotensin/benazepril without talking to your doctor.
What special Lotensin precautions should I follow?
Before taking Lotensin/benazepril,
tell your doctor and Lotensin pharmacist if you are allergic to Lotensin/benazepril or any other drugs.
tell your doctor and Lotensin 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 Lotensin/benazepril.
What special Lotensin dietary instructions should I follow?
Lotensin/Benazepril may cause an upset stomach. Take Lotensin/benazepril with food or milk.
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.
Lotensin Side Effects
Although side effects from Lotensin/benazepril are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these Lotensin 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 Lotensin symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, arms, or legs
difficulty breathing or swallowing
fainting
rash
Lotensin Overdose
Symptoms of Lotensin overdose may include:
dizziness
fainting
What storage conditions are needed for Lotensin?
Keep Lotensin in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store Lotensin at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any Lotensin medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your Lotensin medication.
What should I do if I forget a Lotensin dose?
Take the missed Lotensin dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next Lotensin dose, skip the missed Lotensin dose and continue your regular Lotensin dosing schedule. Do not take a double Lotensin dose to make up for a missed one.
What other Lotensin information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests before and during treatment to check your response to Lotensin.
Do not let anyone else take your Lotensin medication. Ask your Lotensin pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your Lotensin prescription.
In case of Lotensin emergency/overdose
In case of Lotensin 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.
Other uses for this Lotensin medicine
This Lotensin medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more Lotensin information.
