Description
Your doctor may prescribe Lotensin HCT for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure). Hypertension is a chronic health condition where there is too much force acting on the inside of the blood vessels. Over time, hypertension increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Lotensin HCT contains two different medications that work to lower blood pressure.
Fact Table
|
Formula
|
Benazepril: C24H28N2O5 Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ): C7H8ClN3O4S2
|
License
|
Approved by the FDA and other regulatory bodies
|
Bioavailability
|
Benazepril: About 37% (for benazepril hydrochloride) Hydrochlorothiazide: 60-80%
|
Legal status
|
Rx-Only
|
Chemical Name
|
Benazepril / HCTZ
|
Elimination half-life
|
Benazepril: 10-11 hours, Hydrochlorothiazide: 5.6-14.8 hours
|
Dosage (Strength)
|
20/12.5mg
|
Pregnancy
|
Consult Doctor
|
Brands
|
Lotensin HCT
|
Protein binding
|
Benazepril: Approximately 96.7% (for benazeprilat) Hydrochlorothiazide: 40-70%
|
PubChem CID
|
Benazepril: 5362122
Hydrochlorothiazide: 3639
|
MedlinePlus
|
a601070
|
ChEBI
|
Benazepril: 3011
Hydrochlorothiazide: 5779
|
ATC code
|
C09BA07
|
DrugBank
|
Benazepril: DB00542
Hydrochlorothiazide: DB00999
|
KEGG
|
Benazepril: D00630
Hydrochlorothiazide: D00340
|
Routes of administration
|
Oral
|
Directions
Take Lotensin HCT exactly as prescribed by your doctor. The usual dosage ranges from 5-6.25 mg once daily to 20-25 mg twice daily.
Ingredients
The active ingredients in Lotensin HCT are benazapril and hydrochlorothiazide.
Benazepril works by preventing the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, which relaxes blood vessels.
Hydrochlorothiazide works by decreasing the amount of fluid in the blood, lowering blood pressure via a different mechanism.
Interactions
Common drug-drug interactions with this medication may include:
- Aliskiren
- Amifostine
- Aminolevulinic Acid
- Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers
- Arsenic Trioxide
- Bile Acid Sequestrants
- Bromperidol
- Dofetilide
- Grass Pollen Allergen Extract
- Lanthanum
- Levosulpiride
- Lithium
- Mecamylamine
- Obinutuzumab
- Promazine
- Sacubitril
- Sodium Phosphates
- Urapidil
Cautions
Tell your doctor if you develop an unexplained dry cough while taking this medication.
Use caution if you have a history of kidney problems.
If you experience swelling of the limbs while taking this medicine, tell your doctor as the dr
Side Effects
The most common adverse reactions can include:
- Abdominal Pain
- Abnormal Dreams
- Alopecia
- Anorexia
- Arthralgia
- Arthritis
- Back Pain
- Bronchitis
- Chest Pain
- Chills
- Conjunctivitis
- Constipation
- Cough
- Decreased Libido
- Diaphoresis
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Dysgeusia
- Dyspepsia
- Epistaxis
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Flatulence
- Flu-Like Symptoms
- Flushing
- Gastroenteritis
- Hypertonia
- Hypoesthesia
- Hypotension
- Impotence
- Infection
- Insomnia
- Myalgia
- Nausea
- Neck Pain
- Nervousness
- Orthostatic Dizziness
- Pain
- Palpitations
- Paresthesia
- Peripheral Vascular Disease
- Pruritus
- Retinopathy
- Rhinitis
- Sinusitis
- Skin Photosensitivity
- Skin Rash
- Syncope
- Tachycardia
- Tinnitus
- Upper Respiratory Tract Infection
- Urinary Frequency
- Urinary Tract Infection
- Vertigo
- Visual Disturbance
- Voice Disorder
- Vomiting
- Weakness
- Xerostomia
References
Lotensin HCT [package insert]. East Hanover, NJ: Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp; 2009.
Frequently Asked Questions about Lotensin HCT (Benazepril / HCTZ)
What is Lotensin HCT used for?
Lotensin HCT is a combination medication used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) and possibly kidney problems. It is made of an ACE inhibitor (which dilates blood vessels) and a water pill .
How does Lotensin HCT work?
Benazepril blocks a chemical in the body that tightens blood vessels, making them more relaxed, which lowers blood pressure. Hydrochlorothiazide increases urination to help reduce blood pressure.
How should Lotensin HCT be taken?
It is typically dosed once daily. The dosage may be increased after 2 to 3 weeks as needed to help achieve blood pressure goals, with a maximum recommended dose of 20/25 mg.
What are the common side effects of Lotensin HCT?
Common side effects include confusion, decreased urination, dizziness, dry mouth, irregular heartbeat, muscle cramps or pain, numbness, rapid breathing, seizures, sweating, thirst, and unusual tiredness or weakness.
Can I switch to Lotensin HCT if my blood pressure is not adequately controlled with benazepril or hydrochlorothiazide alone?
Yes, a patient whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled with benazepril alone or with hydrochlorothiazide alone may be switched to combination therapy with Lotensin HCT.
Is Lotensin HCT available in generic form?
Yes, Lotensin HCT is available in generic form. You can buy it for cheap at an Online Canadian Pharmacy.
What should I avoid while taking Lotensin HCT?
You should avoid drinking alcohol, as it can make the side effects worse.
What other medications interact with Lotensin HCT?
Some drugs, such as ketoprofen and ketorolac, may interact with hydrochlorothiazide in Lotensin HCT, affecting renal tubular clearance.
Is it safe to take Lotensin HCT during pregnancy?
It is not recommended to take HCT during pregnancy. According to the FDA, there is a high risk for the fetus.
What should I do in case of an overdose?
Call 911 in case of an overdoise, or your local poison control center. Signs of an overdose: dizziness, fainting and a fast heartbeat.
About Dr. Conor Sheehy (Page Author)
Dr. Sheehy (BSc Molecular Biology, PharmD) works a clinical pharmacist specializing in cardiology, oncology, and ambulatory care. He’s a board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist (BCPS), and his experience working one-on-one with patients to fine tune their medication and therapy plans for optimal results makes him a valuable subject matter expert for our pharmacy. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 9364