Lotrel, Capsules

Chemical Name: BENAZEPRIL and AMLODIPINE

Learn more about usage, cautions, and possible side effects.

Common uses

This medicine is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor and a calcium channel blocker combination used to treat high blood pressure.

Before using

WARNING: This drug can cause serious fetal harm if used during the last six months of pregnancy. If pregnancy occurs, stop using this drug and immediately contact your physician. Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. INFORM YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. ADDITIONAL MONITORING OF YOUR DOSE OR CONDITION may be needed if you are taking azathioprine, clozapine, intravenous (IV) calcium, indomethacin, lithium, potassium, diuretics, or medicine for diabetes. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding. USE OF THIS MEDICINE IS NOT RECOMMENDED if you have a history of kidney artery narrowing. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about taking this medicine.

Directions

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. STORE THIS MEDICINE at room temperature in a tightly-closed container, away from heat and light. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do NOT take 2 doses at once.

Cautions

DO NOT DRIVE, OPERATE MACHINERY, OR DO ANYTHING ELSE THAT COULD BE DANGEROUS until you know how you react to this medicine. Using this medicine alone, with other medicines, or with alcohol may lessen your ability to drive or to perform other potentially dangerous tasks. DO NOT USE A SALT SUBSTITUTE or potassium supplement without checking with your doctor. BEFORE YOU BEGIN TAKING ANY NEW MEDICINE, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. FOR WOMEN: USE OF THIS MEDICINE DURING PREGNANCY has resulted in fetal and newborn death. If you think you may be pregnant, contact your doctor immediately. THIS MEDICINE IS EXCRETED IN BREAST MILK. DO NOT BREAST-FEED while taking this medicine.

Possible side effects

SIDE EFFECTS, that may go away during treatment, include headache, dry cough, dizziness or lightheadedness when sitting or standing, or swelling of the hands or feet. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR AS SOON AS POSSIBLE if you experience stomach pain, shortness of breath, hives, irregular or slow heartbeat, or chest pain. CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY if you experience yellowing of the eyes or skin; dark urine; swelling of face, lips, eyes, or tongue; or difficulty swallowing or breathing. An allergic reaction to this medicine is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.

Drug interactions

Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job. Use our drug interaction checker to find out if your medicines interact with each other. Check drug interactions.

If you take too much

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include unusual dizziness, fainting, and unusually rapid or slow pulse.