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. Customers may receive this drug under the names Fortekor, Lotensin.

Benazepril hydrochloride tablets (USP certified) are indicated for the treatment of hypertension. Benazepril hydrochloride tablets may be used alone or in combination with thiazide diuretics.

Benazepril hydrochloride tablets are contraindicated in pets who are hypersensitive to this medication or to any other ACE inhibitor. Benazepril hydrochloride tablets are also contraindicated in pets with a history of angioedema with or without previous ACE inhibitor treatment.

Do not use this medication if allergic to ACE inhibitors. Pets with low blood sodium levels should take Benazepril with caution. Pets with lupus or other blood dyscrasias should not take this medication. Always speak with a veterinarian before starting any new treatment.

This drug is FDA-approved for human use. However, it is common practice for veterinarians to prescribe such drugs for use in dogs and cats.

NOTE: For Generic Medications, the picture displayed may not depict actual product. Generic medications may vary from one order to the next by size, color, and shape depending on the manufacturer. Customers may receive the same drug under the names Fortekor, Lotensin.

Side Effects

If you observe any of the following serious allergic reactions, discontinue use and seek emergency veterinary attention:

• Hives
• Swollen tongue
• Swollen face
• Swollen lips
• Difficulty breathing

Other side effects are rare, but may include:

• Changes in urination (sign of kidney dysfunction)
• Increased thirst (sign of kidney dysfunction)
• Low blood pressure
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite

Notify your veterinarian if your pet exhibits symptoms of these or any other side effect.

Helpful Tips

• Your veterinarian should monitor your pet's urinalysis, kidney values, and blood electrolyte levels within two weeks of beginning treatment with this medication. If this medication is being used to manage high blood pressure, your veterinarian will routinely monitor your pet's blood pressure to ensure that the medication is working.
• Monitor your pet at home for serious adverse reactions.
• If you miss a dose, administer it as soon as you remember, then wait for the recommended amount of time before the next dose. Never give extra doses or administer two doses at once.