Description
Lotensin HCT contains a combination of two different prescription drugs for the treatment of high blood pressure. If left untreated, high blood pressure can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, which are debilitating and sometimes fatal.
Fact Table
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Formula
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Amlodipine: C20H25ClN2O5
Benazepril: C24H28N2O5
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License
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Approved by the FDA and other regulatory bodies
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Bioavailability
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Amlodipine: Approximately 64-80%
Benazepril: About 37%
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Legal status
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Rx-Only
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Chemical Name
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Amlodipine + Benazepril
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Elimination half-life
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Amlodipine: 30-50 hours
Benazepril: 10-11 hours
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Dosage (Strength)
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5-10mg, 5-20mg, 10-20mg, 10-40mg
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Pregnancy
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Consult Doctor
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Brands
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Lotrel
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Protein binding
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Amlodipine: Approximately 97.5%
Benazepril: Approximately 96.7%
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PubChem CID
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Amlodipine: 2162
Benazepril: 5362122
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MedlinePlus
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a601009
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ChEBI
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Amlodipine: 2668
Benazepril: 301
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ATC code
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C09BB03
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DrugBank
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Amlodipine: DB00381
Benazepril: DB00542
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KEGG
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Amlodipine: D07450
Benazepril: D00630
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Routes of administration
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Oral
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Directions
Lotensin is available in a variety of different strengths, including
- Benazepril-hydrochlorothiazide 5-6.25 mg
- Benazepril-hydrochlorothiazide 10-12.5 mg
- Benazepril-hydrochlorothiazide 20-12.5 mg
- Benazepril-hydrochlorothiazide 20-25 mg
Take Lotensin HCT exactly as directed by your healthcare provider. It is usually taken once or twice daily.
Ingredients
The active ingredients in Lotensin HCT are benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide.
Benazepril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. It works by preventing the formation of angiotensin II, which helps to regulate and decrease blood pressure.
Interactions
Common drug-drug interactions 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 have a history of kidney or liver problems before starting this drug.
Stop taking Lotensin HCT if you suddenly develop an unexplained dry cough.
Your doctor should monitor your blood electrolytes when starting this drug and also periodically.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of this drug are:
- 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 Lotrel (Amlodipine + Benazepril)
What is Lotrel used for?
Lotrel is a medication used to treat high blood pressure by combining two active ingredients: Amlodipine, a calcium channel blocker, and Benazepril, an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor.
How should Lotrel be taken?
Lotrel can be taken with or without food, and it's recommended to take it around the same time every day. It should be stored at room temperature, away from heat and direct light.
What are the common side effects of Lotrel?
Common side effects include sexual problems, drowsiness, headache, fatigue, nausea, and stomach pain. It may also cause water retention in the legs and arms.
How does Lotrel work?
Lotrel works by relaxing and widening the blood vessels, which in turn improves blood flow and lowers blood pressure.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
Can Lotrel be taken with other medications?
Lotrel can react with potassium supplements and is known to react with simvastatin which might lead to liver damage.
What should I avoid while taking Lotrel?
Avoid alcohol as it may further lower your blood pressure and increase side effects. Also, avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated.
Can I take Lotrel if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
Let your doctor know. It isn't harmful to the baby or known to affect pregnancy, so they may look for alternatives that are proven to be safe.
Is Lotrel a brand name or generic name?
Lotrel is the brand name for the combination of Amlodipine and Benazepril.
What forms and strengths does Lotrel come in?
Lotrel is available in capsule form with varying strengths of Amlodipine and Benazepril.
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 : 5495