name | Benazepril |
Classification | Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor |
Pharmacokinetics | Benazepril is a prodrug that is converted to benazeprilat, the active metabolite, in the liver. Benazeprilat is primarily excreted by the kidneys. Absorption is rapid and generally complete, with peak plasma concentrations occurring within 1-2 hours. The half-life varies depending on renal function and can range from 11 to 27 hours. |
suggested dosage | male patient 25 70kg | initial dosage | 10 mg orally once daily | titration info | Dosage may be increased to 20-40 mg once daily, depending on the patient's response and blood pressure control. Dosage adjustments may be needed based on kidney function. |
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indications | Benazepril is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and to manage heart failure. It may also be used to reduce the risk of stroke and kidney damage in high-risk patients. |
Safety in pregnancy | Benazepril is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy. Use should be weighed against potential risks, especially in the second and third trimesters where ACE inhibitors have been linked to fetal harm. |
Safety in breastfeeding | Benazepril is not recommended for use in breastfeeding women due to potential excretion into breast milk and possible effects on the infant. |
side effects | 1 | Dizziness | 2 | Headache | 3 | Fatigue | 4 | Cough (dry, persistent) | 5 | Loss of taste | 6 | Rash | 7 | Diarrhea | 8 | Nausea | 9 | Vomiting | 10 | Kidney problems (e.g., acute renal failure) | 11 | Changes in blood tests (e.g., potassium levels) | 12 | Hypotension (low blood pressure) | 13 | Angioedema (swelling of the face, throat, or other areas) |
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alternatives | |
contraindications | 1 | History of angioedema | 2 | Severe kidney disease | 3 | Pregnancy (especially second and third trimesters) | 4 | Hypersensitivity to benazepril or other ACE inhibitors |
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interactions | 1 | NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) | 2 | Potassium-sparing diuretics | 3 | Lithium | 4 | Other ACE inhibitors | 5 | Diuretics | 6 | Other blood pressure medications | 7 | Certain medications used to treat HIV |
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warnings and precautions | 1 | Monitor blood pressure closely, especially during the initial dosage adjustment period. | 2 | Renal function should be monitored regularly, particularly in patients with pre-existing kidney disease. | 3 | Patients should be monitored for signs and symptoms of angioedema (swelling). | 4 | Avoid use during pregnancy and breast-feeding. | 5 | Consult doctor before consuming any other medications while taking this drug |
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additional information | Benazepril should be taken with food to aid absorption. Do not discontinue the medication abruptly without consulting your doctor. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking. |