Benazepril HCl

The typical dosage of Benazepril for adults is:

• Initial dose: 10 mg once daily for patients not receiving a diuretic.
• Maintenance dose: 20 mg to 40 mg per day, taken as a single dose or divided into two doses.

Dosage may be adjusted based on the patient's response and tolerance, with the maximum recommended daily dose being 80 mg.

Benazepril HCl is contraindicated in patients with:

• A history of angioedema related to previous treatment with an ACE inhibitor.
• Known hypersensitivity to Benazepril or any other ACE inhibitors.
• Use during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters, due to the risk of fetal harm.
• Concurrent use with aliskiren in patients with diabetes.

Patients taking Benazepril should be advised to:

• Monitor their blood pressure regularly to ensure the medication is effective.
• Avoid potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium unless directed by a healthcare provider, as Benazepril can increase potassium levels in the blood.
• Be aware of potential side effects, such as dizziness, particularly when standing up quickly, which can result from lowered blood pressure.
• Report any signs of angioedema (such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat) immediately, as this can be a serious side effect.
• Inform their healthcare provider of all medications they are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to avoid potential interactions.

Common side effects of Benazepril HCl may include:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Cough (a persistent dry cough is a well-known side effect of ACE inhibitors)
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Nausea

Serious side effects can include:

• Angioedema (swelling of the face, throat, or limbs)
• High potassium levels (hyperkalemia)
• Kidney dysfunction
• Severe hypotension (low blood pressure)

Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms of angioedema, severe dizziness, or fainting.

• Angioedema: Benazepril can cause angioedema, a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by swelling of the deeper layers of the skin, often around the eyes and lips, and sometimes the throat. Patients with a history of angioedema are at higher risk.
• Hyperkalemia: Benazepril can increase blood potassium levels, particularly in patients with kidney disease, diabetes, or those taking potassium-sparing diuretics.
• Renal Function: Benazepril can affect kidney function, especially in patients with pre-existing kidney conditions. Monitoring of renal function is advised, especially during the first few weeks of treatment.

Hypotension: Severe hypotension can occur, particularly in patients who are volume-depleted or on diuretic therapy.

Benazepril HCl may interact with other medications, including:

• Potassium-sparing diuretics and potassium supplements: Can increase the risk of hyperkalemia.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): May reduce the antihypertensive effects of Benazepril and increase the risk of kidney damage.
• Lithium: Co-administration with Benazepril can increase lithium levels and risk of lithium toxicity.
• Diuretics: Concurrent use may enhance the blood pressure-lowering effects, increasing the risk of hypotension.

Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications and supplements they are taking to avoid potential interactions.

Alternative treatments for hypertension include:

• Other ACE inhibitors: Such as lisinopril or enalapril.
• Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs): Such as losartan or valsartan, which may be used in patients who cannot tolerate ACE inhibitors.
• Calcium channel blockers: Such as amlodipine.
• Beta-blockers: Such as metoprolol.
• Diuretics: Such as hydrochlorothiazide.

The choice of treatment depends on the patient's specific health condition, response to previous treatments, and any underlying medical conditions.