Indications
Lotrel (active ingredients: amlodipine and benazepril) is a prescription medication indicated for:
-
Hypertension: Lotrel is used for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure) in patients who require combination therapy.
Lotrel belongs to a class of drugs known as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and calcium channel blockers. ACE inhibitors work by relaxing blood vessels, while calcium channel blockers work by dilating blood vessels and reducing the workload on the heart. This combination helps to lower blood pressure more effectively.
Uses and Dosage
Lotrel comes in the form of oral capsules which should be taken by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Take Lotrel regularly to get the most benefit from it, and to help remember, take it at the same time each day. Continue taking the medication even if you feel well, as most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick.
The recommended initial dosage of Lotrel is 1 capsule of amlodipine 2.5 mg/benazepril 10 mg once daily, taken by mouth with or without food as directed by a doctor. The dosage may be adjusted by a healthcare provider based on the patient's response to treatment and medical condition. However, the maximum recommended daily dosage of Lotrel is 10mg amlodipine / 40mg benazepril.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Lotrel (Amlodipine/Benazepril):
- Cough
- Dizziness
- Headache
- lightheadedness
- Swelling of the hands/ankles/feet
- Itching
- Nausea
Serious Side Effects of Lotrel (Amlodipine/Benazepril):
- Angioedema (swelling)
- Body aches
- Chills
- Fever
- Flu symptoms
- High potassium (slow heart rate, weak pulse, muscle weakness, tingly feeling)
- New or worsened chest pain
- Rapid weight gain
- Rash
- Sore throat
- Unusual weakness or tired feeling
- Upper stomach pain
- Yellowing skin or eyes (jaundice)
Form and Strength
Lotrel (Amlodipine/Benazepril) is available in the following forms and strengths:
Lotrel: Capsule
- 5/10 mg
- 5/20 mg
- 10/20 mg
- 10/40 mg
Amlodipine/Benazepril: Capsule
- 5/10 mg
- 5/20 mg
- 10/20 mg
- 10/40 mg
Caution
- If you take Lotrel, you may experience dizziness. Consuming alcohol or marijuana can increase dizziness, and you should avoid driving, operating machinery, or any activity that requires alertness until you can do so safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. If you use marijuana, speak with your doctor regarding its usage while taking Lotrel.
- Before taking Lotrel, inform your doctor or pharmacist of any allergies you may have to amlodipine, benazepril, dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers, ACE inhibitors or any other substances. This product may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions. Contact your pharmacist for more information.
- Lotrel may lead to sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting, which in turn can cause dehydration and increase the risk of lightheadedness. If you experience prolonged diarrhea or vomiting, you should also ensure you are drinking enough fluids to prevent dehydration, unless your doctor advises otherwise.
- Lotrel causes injury and death to the developing fetus. When pregnancy is detected, discontinue the use of Lotrel as soon as possible according to the prescribing information and warnings provided by the manufacturer.
- Lotrel can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. The use of drugs that act on the renin-angiotensin system during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy reduces fetal renal function and increases fetal and neonatal morbidity and death.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take for Lotrel (amlodipine/benazepril) to start working?
It can take about 2 weeks before you notice the full blood pressure-lowering effect from Lotrel (amlodipine/benazepril). Keep in mind that it can take some time before your provider finds a dose that works best for you.
How should I take Lotrel?
Lotrel should be taken once daily by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor.
What is the recommended starting dose of Lotrel?
The recommended starting dose of Lotrel is 1 capsule of amlodipine 2.5 mg/benazepril 10 mg.
Can Lotrel be used during pregnancy?
No, Lotrel should not be used during pregnancy as it may cause harm to the developing fetus.
Resources
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2006/020364s023lbl.pdf
- https://www.goodrx.com/lotrel/what-is
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-16188/lotrel-oral/details
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/lookup.cfm?setid=94ae6054-b7ae-4212-a567-4f803af8f2c7
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/amlodipine-and-benazepril-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20062916?p=1
- https://www.rxlist.com/lotrel-side-effects-drug-center.htm
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