Indications
Lotensin HCT is a prescription medication used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). By lowering high blood pressure, Lotensin HCT helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. It is a combination medication that contains benazepril hydrochloride (an ACE inhibitor) and hydrochlorothiazide (a diuretic or "water pill").
Benazepril works by blocking a chemical in the body that tightens blood vessels, which helps relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure. Hydrochlorothiazide increases the amount of urine you make, which decreases excess fluid in the body and helps to lower blood pressure.
Use and Dosage
Lotensin HCT comes in tablet form and should be taken by mouth with or without food, as directed by your doctor, usually once a day. To get the most benefit from Lotensin HCT, use it regularly at the same time each day. To prevent dehydration, be sure to drink adequate fluids. If you are on a restricted fluid intake, consult your doctor for instructions.
The dosage of Lotensin HCT varies based on your medical condition and response to therapy. It may take 2 weeks to see the full benefit of this drug for high blood pressure or several weeks to months for congestive heart failure.
Continue taking Lotensin HCT even if you feel well, as most people with high blood pressure do not experience symptoms. Take it around the same time every day to help you remember to take benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide. If you are also taking cholestyramine or colestipol, take benazepril/hydrochlorothiazide at least 4 hours before or 4 to 6 hours after taking those drugs. Lotensin HCT can take 1-2 weeks for the maximum blood pressure reduction to occur and several weeks to months when used for congestive heart failure.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Lotensin HCT (Benazepril/Hctz):
- Cough
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Tiredness
Serious Side Effects of Lotensin HCT (Benazepril/Hctz):
- Blurred vision
- Burning in your eyes
- Chills
- Constipation
- Difficulty breathing
- Eye pain
- Feeling jittery
- Fever
- Flu-like symptoms
- Hives
- Increased thirst or urination
- Irregular heartbeats
- Joint pain and
- Leg cramps
- Lightheadedness
- Little or no urination
- Loss of movement
- Mouth sores
- Muscle pain
- Numbness or tingling
- Red or purple skin rash that spreads and causes blistering and peeling
- Seeing halos around lights
- Shortness of breath
- Skin pain
- Skin rash on your cheeks or arms that worsens in sunlight
- Sore throat
- Swelling in your feet or ankles
- Swelling of your face lips tongue or throat
- Tiredness
- Tunnel vision
- Weakness
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
Forms and Strength
Lotensin HCT (Benazepril/Hctz) is available in the following forms and strength:
Lotensin HCT: Tablet
- 10/12.5mg
Benazepril/Hctz: Tablet
- 10/12.5mg
- 20/12.5mg
- 20/25mg
Cautions
- Lotensin HCT should not be taken during pregnancy, as it can cause fetal harm or even death. If you become pregnant while taking Lotensin HCT, your doctor should be notified immediately.
- Patients with a history of angioedema (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat), especially with previous use of an ACE inhibitor like benazepril, should use Lotensin HCT with caution.
- Patients with a history of renal artery stenosis (narrowing of the renal arteries that supply blood to the kidneys) may be at increased risk for kidney problems while taking Lotensin HCT.
- Lotensin HCT may cause dehydration, drink enough water, and seek medical attention if you experience signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, thirst, or decreased urine output.
- Patients should inform their doctors of any other medications or supplements they are taking before starting Lotensin HCT, as there may be potential drug interactions. If you have any concerns about the use of Lotensin HCT, you should discuss them with your healthcare provider.
- Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the side effects of Lotensin HCT, especially dizziness or lightheadedness when standing up from a lying down or seated position.
- Lotensin HCT may not be effective in controlling blood pressure in all patients, and some may require additional or alternative treatments.
- Patients with a history of liver or kidney disease may require special monitoring while taking Lotensin HCT.
- Lotensin HCT may cause allergic reactions in some patients, such as hives, itching, or difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can Lotensin HCT be taken during pregnancy?
No, Lotensin HCT should not be taken during pregnancy as it can cause fetal harm or death. If you become pregnant while taking the medication, notify your doctor immediately.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Lotensin HCT?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose as scheduled. Do not take extra medication to make up for the missed dose.
How long does it take for Lotensin HCT to start working?
The onset of action for Lotensin HCT varies but can take about 1-2 weeks to achieve maximum blood pressure reduction.
Can alcohol be consumed while taking Lotensin HCT?
Consuming alcohol while taking Lotensin HCT may increase the side effects of dizziness or lightheadedness.
Can Lotensin HCT be taken with food?
Lotensin HCT can be taken with or without food.
Resources
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601025.html
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/lotensin-hct.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-16169/lotensin-hct-oral/details
- https://www.goodrx.com/lotensin-hct/what-is
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2009/020033s038lbl.pdf
- https://www.rxlist.com/lotensin-hct-drug.htm
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