Lotensin HCT

Generic name: Benazepril hydrochloride and hydrochlorothiazide

What is Lotensin HCT?

Lotensin is a combination product that contains two medicines: Benazepril, an ACE inhibitor, and hydrochlorothiazide, a diuretic. These two medications work together to lower blood pressure in patients who may not have had adequate blood pressure lowering from other medications.

What is the most important information I should know about Lotensin HCT?

When taken during pregnancy, angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors such as Lotensin HCT can cause injury and even death to the developing baby. If you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant, stop taking Lotensin HCT and contact your doctor immediately.

Lotensin HCT can cause a rare but serious allergic reaction leading to extreme swelling of the face, lips, tongue, throat, or gut (causing severe abdominal pain). If you experience any of these symptoms seek emergency medical attention.

Lotensin HCT may rarely cause a yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), which can be a sign of liver injury. If this occurs tell your doctor immediately.

Lotensin HCT may cause lightheadedness or fainting, especially upon standing from a lying or sitting position.

Lotensin HCT may decrease your blood levels of infection-fighting white blood cells, especially if you have lupus erythematosus or kidney disease. If you have these diseases, your doctor will most likely monitor you closely by taking regular blood samples. If you get any type of infection (sore throat/fever) while taking Lotensin HCT, promptly report it to your doctor.

Lotensin HCT may activate lupus or gout (severe and painful inflammation of joints) in certain susceptible patients.

If you have diabetes, Lotensin HCT may increase your blood sugar levels; check your blood sugar frequently.

Lotensin HCT should be taken with caution in patients who have congestive heart failure.

Who should not take Lotensin HCT?

You should not take Lotensin HCT if you do not produce urine, you have a history of sensitivity or allergic reaction to an ACE inhibitor, or you are allergic to sulfonamide-derived medications.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Lotensin HCT?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Lotensin HCT. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant. Tell your doctor if you have diabetes, heart failure, lupus, liver or kidney disease, or if you have ever had an allergy or sensitivity to an ACE inhibitor or sulfonamide-derived medications.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: Usual doses range from 10/12.5 milligrams (mg), 10 mg of benazepril and 12.5 mg of hydrochlorothiazide) to 20/25 mg taken once daily. Your doctor may increase your dose based on your individual condition and blood pressure.

How should I take Lotensin HCT?

You should take Lotensin HCT with or without food at the same time every day.

What should I avoid while taking Lotensin HCT?

Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how Lotensin HCT will affect you. Also avoid becoming dehydrated while taking Lotensin HCT; this could cause your blood pressure to drop too low.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Lotensin HCT?

If Lotensin HCT is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Lotensin HCT with any of the following: diuretics (such as hydrochlorothiazide, spironolactone, amiloride, triamterene), cholestyramine, colestipol, lithium, norepinephrine, NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen, insulin, potassium supplements, salt substitutes containing potassium

What are the possible side effects of Lotensin HCT?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: headache, dizziness, cough, fatigue, nausea, impotence, muscle rigidity

Can I receive Lotensin HCT if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Taking Lotensin HCT while you are pregnant could cause serious harm or even death to your unborn baby. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Lotensin HCT is excreted in breast milk; talk to your doctor before breastfeeding and taking Lotensin HCT.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Lotensin HCT?

If you forget to take Lotensin HCT, skip the dose you missed and then return to your normal dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

How should I store Lotensin HCT?

Store Lotensin HCT at room temperature in a tightly closed container protected from light.