|
Brand Name
Lotensin
Pronunciation
ben-AYZ-eh-pril
Common Drug Name
Benazepril
What should I discuss with my veterinarian while considering Benazepril?
Talk to your veterinarian about what type of outcome is expected. Have your veterinarian explain the other treatment options that may be available to treat your pet's condition. Understand what type of monitoring may be necessary while your pet is taking Benazepril .
Tell your veterinarian if your pet has kidney disease, blood abnormalities, a vascular disease such as systemic lupus erythematosis (SLE), diabetes, may be pregnant, or may be used for breeding.
Notify your veterinarian of any other medications or supplements your pet is taking, and if your pet has had any reactions to previous medications.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the regular schedule. Do not give two doses at once.
What is the most important information I should know?
Give Benazepril exactly as your veterinarian prescribes. Do not stop the medication or decrease the dose unless instructed to do so by your veterinarian. If your pet experiences diarrhea, vomiting, or the symptoms worsen while on Benazepril , contact your veterinarian.
Who should not take it?
Not for use in animals hypersensitive (allergic) to this drug or other ACE inhibitors. Use with caution in animals with very low blood sodium levels. Not for use in animals with lupus or blood abnormalities.
Not for use in pregnant animals. May be used in lactating animals (female animals nursing their young).
What side effects may be seen when taking Benazepril?
Side effects are uncommon but may include lack of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. Potentially could cause low blood pressure, which may cause weakness or collapse; kidney dysfunction, which may cause increased thirst and/or changes in urination; and abnormally high potassium levels, which may cause
weakness, a slow heart rate, and a weak pulse. Consult your veterinarian if you notice any of the above side effects or if your pet's condition worsens.
Abnormalities of the blood and skin rashes have rarely occurred in humans. These have not been seen in animals.
If your pet experiences an allergic reaction to the medication, signs may include facial
swelling, hives, scratching, sudden onset of diarrhea, vomiting, shock, seizures, pale gums, cold limbs, or coma. If you observe any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately.
How is it stored?
Store in a tight, light-resistant, childproof container at room temperature. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
What should I do if I know of or suspect there has been an overdose?
The most common sign of an overdose is weakness or collapse. If you know or suspect your pet has had an overdose, or if you observe any of these signs in your pet, contact your veterinarian immediately.
What should I avoid when giving my pet Benazepril?
Consult your veterinarian before using Benazepril with any other medications, including vitamins and supplements, diuretics (e.g. Lasix, Salix), other vasodilators, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory
drugs (NSAIDs) e.g., aspirin, etodolac (EtoGesic), carprofen (Novox or Rimadyl), meloxicam (Metacam, firocoxib (Previcox), tepoxalin (Zubrin), or deracoxib (Deramaxx), since interactions may occur.
This medication is commonly given along with diuretics such as furosemide (Lasix, Salix), and may require adjustment of the diuretic dose by your veterinarian.
High potassium levels may develop if potassium supplements, or potassium sparing diuretics, are given at the same time as Benazepril .
Where is more information available?
Ask your veterinarian, consult with one of our pharmacists at 1-800-447-3021, or see the
Patient Information Sheet on this medication. |