Benazepril
Information about Benazepril
Benazepril uses
Benazepril is used in the treatment of Hypertension (high blood pressure), prevention of heart attack and stroke and Heart failure.
How benazepril works
Benazepril is an angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. It works by reducing stress on the heart and relaxing blood vessel so that blood flows more smoothly and the heart can pump blood more efficiently.
Common side effects of benazepril
Cough, Dizziness, Headache, Hypotension (low blood pressure), Sleepiness, Anaphylactic reaction, Angioedema (swelling of deeper layers of skin), Muscle pain, Decreased libido, Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Available Medicine for Benazepril
Expert advice for Benazepril
- Benazepril can make you feel dizzy for the first few days, so rise slowly if you have been sitting or lying down. You can also prefer taking it at bedtime to avoid dizziness throughout the day.
- Let your doctor know about any cough, or throat irritation that does not go away.
- It may increase the level of potassium in blood. Avoid taking potassium supplements and potassium-rich foods such as banana and broccoli.
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Frequently asked questions for Benazepril
Benazepril
Q. What is Benazepril? What is it used for?
Benazepril belongs to a group of medicines known as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It relaxes and widens the blood vessels, making it easier for the blood to pass through the vessels. As a result of this, the heart does not have to work more to push the blood. Since the workload on the heart is reduced, it helps to lower the blood pressure and thus reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Q. What time of the day should I take Benazepril?
Benazepril should be taken in the dose and duration advised by the doctor, preferably at the same time each day to reduce the chances of a missed dose. Your doctor may advise you to take your first dose before bedtime, as it can make you dizzy. However, if you do not feel dizzy after the first dose, you may take Benazepril at any time of the day. If you have been prescribed Benazepril twice a day, try to take it once in the morning and once in the evening, leaving a gap of 10 to 12 hours between the two doses.
Q. I feel better after taking Benazepril, can I stop taking it?
No, do not stop taking Benazepril even if you feel better or if your blood pressure is under control. These beneficial effects are due to the use of medicines. Stopping Benazepril suddenly may cause your blood pressure to increase and your chances of stroke or heart attack may rise. Usually, medicine used for controlling blood pressure needs to be taken life long unless you cannot tolerate it.