WARNING
Benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide are commonly prescribed medications for high blood pressure. While they can be effective in managing hypertension, they also carry some risks:
- Low blood pressure (hypotension): Taking these medications can cause your blood pressure to drop too low, leading to dizziness, fainting, or even shock. It’s important to monitor your blood pressure regularly and consult your doctor if you experience symptoms of low blood pressure.
- Electrolyte imbalances: Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic that can increase the excretion of potassium, sodium, and magnesium in urine, leading to electrolyte imbalances. This can result in symptoms such as muscle cramps, weakness, irregular heartbeat, or even more severe complications.
- Kidney problems: Both benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide can affect kidney function, especially in individuals with pre-existing kidney disease. They can worsen kidney function or cause acute kidney injury in some cases.
- Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to benazepril or hydrochlorothiazide, which can lead to symptoms like rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. Severe allergic reactions can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
- Drug interactions: These medications can interact with other drugs you’re taking, potentially increasing the risk of side effects or reducing their effectiveness. It’s essential to inform your doctor about all the medications, supplements, or herbal products you’re using.
- Pregnancy complications: Both benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide are not recommended during pregnancy, especially during the second and third trimesters, as they can harm the fetus and lead to complications such as kidney problems or low blood pressure in the newborn.
Always follow your doctor’s recommendations regarding the dosage and usage of these medications, and report any concerning symptoms or side effects promptly.
Why is this medication prescribed?
Benazepril and Hydrochlorothiazide are often prescribed together as a combination medication for the treatment of high blood pressure (hypertension). Benazepril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, while hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic.
Here’s why they’re prescribed:
- Benazepril: It works by relaxing blood vessels, which helps to lower blood pressure and improve blood flow.
- Hydrochlorothiazide: It helps your body get rid of excess salt and water by increasing urine production, which also helps to lower blood pressure.
The combination of these two medications can be more effective in lowering blood pressure compared to either medication alone.
How should this medicine be used?
Benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide should be used exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Here are some general guidelines on how to use these medications:
- Dosage: Take the medication exactly as directed by your doctor. The dosage will depend on your medical condition and response to treatment. Do not alter the dosage unless instructed by your doctor.
- Administration: Benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide are typically taken orally, usually once a day. They can be taken with or without food, but it’s important to be consistent with your timing to ensure the medication works effectively.
- Hydration: Since hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic, it’s important to stay hydrated while taking it. Drink plenty of water throughout the day unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
- Monitoring: Your doctor may recommend regular monitoring of your blood pressure and electrolyte levels while you’re taking benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide. This helps to ensure that the medication is working effectively and that any potential side effects are detected early.
- Duration: Continue taking benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide even if you feel well. Stopping the medication suddenly can lead to a sudden increase in blood pressure. If you wish to stop taking the medication or have concerns about its use, consult your doctor first.
- Missed dose: If you miss a dose of benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
- Storage: Store benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide at room temperature away from light and moisture. Keep them out of reach of children and pets.
Always follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and consult them if you have any questions or concerns about how to use benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide.
Other uses for this medicine
Some potential off-label uses include:
- Heart failure: Benazepril, as an ACE inhibitor, may be used alongside other medications to manage heart failure by improving heart function and reducing symptoms.
- Protection of kidney function: Both benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide can help protect kidney function, especially in patients with diabetes or chronic kidney disease.
- Edema: Hydrochlorothiazide, as a diuretic, may be used to reduce fluid retention and swelling (edema) associated with various conditions, such as heart failure, liver disease, or kidney disorders.
What special precautions should I follow?
Regarding special precautions for benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide, consider the following:
- Allergies: Inform your doctor if you are allergic to any medications, including benazepril, hydrochlorothiazide, or other ACE inhibitors and sulfa drugs.
- Medical history: Disclose your medical history, especially if you have a history of kidney disease, liver disease, lupus, gout, diabetes, or high levels of potassium in your blood.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide are not recommended during pregnancy, especially during the second and third trimesters, as they can harm the fetus. They may also pass into breast milk and harm nursing infants.
- Interactions: Inform your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as they may interact with benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide, potentially increasing the risk of side effects or reducing their effectiveness.
- Electrolyte levels: Regularly monitor your electrolyte levels (especially potassium) and kidney function while taking these medications, as they can affect electrolyte balance and kidney function.
- Dizziness: Benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide may cause dizziness, especially when standing up quickly. Take precautions to prevent falls and avoid activities that require alertness until you know how the medications affect you.
Always follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and report any concerning symptoms or side effects promptly.
What special dietary instructions should I follow?
- Potassium-rich foods: Since hydrochlorothiazide can increase potassium excretion, your doctor may recommend a diet moderate in potassium. Common high-potassium foods include bananas, oranges, potatoes, and spinach. Discuss dietary changes with your doctor.
What should I do if I forget a dose?
- Take it as soon as you remember: If you miss a dose of benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
- Do not double up: Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Taking too much medication at once can increase the risk of side effects.
- Resume regular schedule: Resume taking benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide as prescribed by your doctor. If you’re unsure about what to do, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.
What side effects can this medication cause?
Benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide, like all medications, can cause side effects. Here are some common side effects associated with each medication:
- Cough
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Nausea
- Rash or skin itching
- Weakness
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Electrolyte imbalances (such as low potassium levels)
- Increased urination
- Muscle cramps
- Weakness
- Upset stomach or diarrhea
Less common but more serious side effects of benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide may include:
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (indicating a possible allergic reaction)
- Severe dizziness or fainting
- Signs of kidney problems (such as changes in urine output or color)
- Allergic reactions (such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing)
- Severe skin reactions (such as blistering or peeling skin)
- Signs of electrolyte imbalance (such as irregular heartbeat or muscle weakness)
- Signs of liver problems (such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or persistent nausea/vomiting)
It’s important to note that this is not a complete list of side effects, and some people may experience side effects not listed here. If you experience any concerning symptoms while taking benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Additionally, if you have any questions or concerns about potential side effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.
What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?
Storage and disposal of benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide:
- Storage: Keep benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide in their original packaging at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Do not store them in the bathroom. Keep them out of reach of children and pets.
- Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for guidance on how to safely dispose of medications.
In case of emergency/overdose
- Seek medical help: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms such as fainting, difficulty breathing, or extreme dizziness, seek immediate medical attention or call your local emergency services.
- Poison control: If you have access to a poison control center, call them immediately for guidance on what to do next. In the United States, you can reach Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222.
What other information should I know?
- Regular check-ups: Your doctor may require regular check-ups to monitor your blood pressure, kidney function, and electrolyte levels while taking benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide.
- Lab tests: Your doctor may also order periodic lab tests, including blood tests and urine tests, to monitor your response to the medication and detect any potential side effects or complications.
- Avoid alcohol: Limit alcohol consumption while taking benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide, as it can increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness or dehydration.
- Avoid overheating: Be cautious when exercising or in hot weather, as benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide can increase the risk of dehydration and heat-related illness.
- Medical alert: Inform healthcare providers, including dentists and emergency responders, that you are taking benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide. Carry a medical alert card or wear a bracelet indicating your medication regimen in case of emergencies.
- Medication refills: Ensure you have an adequate supply of medication and refill your prescription before running out. Do not stop taking benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide abruptly without consulting your doctor, as it may lead to a sudden increase in blood pressure.
Always follow your doctor’s instructions and ask any questions you may have about your medication regimen.
