Benazepril
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Benazepril

Benazepril HCI is a prescription medication used to treat heart failure, high blood pressure and some forms of kidney disease. It helps by blocking a natural enzyme called angiotensin, which is normally part of a reaction in the body that causes the blood vessels to narrow. When medication blocks this enzyme, it allows blood vessels to relax and dilate, which may lower blood pressure.

Compounding is available for Benazepril– with compounding, you’re able to get more accurate dosages with easier-to-give dosage forms!

(Prescription required)

Category:
Brand Name: Lotensin
Generic Name: Benazepril
For: Dogs and Cats
What is Benazepril?

Benazepril is a prescription medication used in dogs and cats for the treatment of heart failure, high blood pressure, and some forms of kidney disease. Benazepril is an angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. ACE inhibitors decrease fluid retention by dilating veins. Benazepril may also be used for purposes other than those listed.

Benefits:
  • Treats heart failure, high blood pressure, and some forms of kidney disease in dogs and cats
  • Dilates the veins and decreases fluid retention
  • Can be given with or without food.
Cautions:

Do not stop giving this medication without your veterinarian’s approval. A missed dose can result in a sudden rise in blood pressure. Give this medication exactly as directed by your veterinarian. If you do not understand the directions ask the pharmacist or veterinarian to explain them to you.

What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving Benazepril to my pet?

Tell your veterinarian if your pet has liver disease, lupus, or blood abnormalities. Tell your veterinarian if your pet is pregnant or nursing.

What are the potential side effects of Benazepril?

For dogs and cats, if any of the following serious side effects occur, stop giving Benazepril and seek emergency veterinary medical attention; an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; swelling of the lips; tongue or face; hives). Side effects are rare but may include loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. Benazepril could cause low blood pressure or kidney dysfunction indicated by increased thirst and/or changes in urination. Talk to your veterinarian about any side effect that seems unusual or bothersome to your pet.

What happens if I miss giving a dose of Benazepril?

Give the missed dose as soon as you remember during the same day. However, if you don’t remember until the next day, skip the dose you missed and give only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not give a double dose of the medication.

What happens if I overdose my pet on Benazepril?

Seek emergency veterinary medical treatment. Symptoms of Benazepril overdose include weakness or collapse.

What should I avoid while giving Benazepril to my pet?

Benazepril should not be used in pets allergic to it or other ACE inhibitors. Use Benazepril with caution in pets with liver disease. Do not use in pregnant females. Benazepril may be used in nursing pets. Use with caution in pets with very low blood sodium levels.

What other drugs will affect Benazepril?

Tell your veterinarian if your pet is being given azathioprine, COX 2 inhibitors (Deramaxx or Previcox), cyclosporine (Atopica), diuretics (furosemide, Salix), beta blockers (atenolol), and other blood pressure medications, insulin, NSAIDS (Rimadyl or Novox), Potassium salts, aspirin (Vetrin), and sulfonamides (SMZ/TMP). Drugs other than those listed may also interact with Benazepril. Talk to your veterinarian or pharmacist before giving any prescription or over the counter medicines including vitamins, and supplements.