Benazepril

Dosage Forms Available

• Benazepril is available for use orally in the form of tablets.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This medicine is meant for adults and children aged 6 years and older. The starting dose for children is typically based on body weight.

Contraindications

• Benazepril is contraindicated in patients with known allergies to benazepril or any other angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor.

• It is also contraindicated in patients with a history of angioedema related to previous ACE inhibitor therapy.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Benazepril may interact with diuretics (such as furosemide and hydrochlorothiazide), potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium, lithium, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (like ibuprofen and naproxen), and other blood pressure medications (such as amlodipine and metoprolol).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Benazepril may result in severe low blood pressure, dizziness, and fainting. If an overdose is suspected, immediate medical attention should be sought.

• If you miss a dose of Benazepril, take it as soon as you remember, provided it is not close to the time of your next dose. If it is, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• Drinking plenty of water can help manage symptoms such as headache, fatigue, and dry mouth.

• Resting or closing your eyes can help alleviate dizziness or lightheadedness.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Benazepril may cause dizziness. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Benazepril may cause fetal harm. Pregnant women should not take this medicine, especially during the second and third trimesters.

• Breastfeeding mothers should consult their doctor before taking Benazepril as it may pass into breast milk.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with a history of angioedema or allergies to ACE inhibitors should exercise caution when taking Benazepril.

• Dehydration, excessive sweating, vomiting, or diarrhoea can increase the risk of low blood pressure when on Benazepril.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Drinking plenty of fluids can help manage symptoms of dehydration that may occur as a side effect of Benazepril.

• Avoid using salt substitutes or consuming high-potassium foods while taking Benazepril, unless advised by your doctor.

• Follow a low-sodium diet to aid in the management of high blood pressure, a condition which Benazepril is commonly used to manage.