LOTENSIN HCT

Drug Name: LOTENSIN HCT

LOTENSIN HCT DESCRIPTION:
BENAZEPRIL with THIAZIDES - ORAL (beh-NAZE-eh-prill WITH THIGH-uh-zides)

COMMON LOTENSIN HCT BRAND NAME(S):
Lotensin HCT

LOTENSIN HCT SIDE EFFECTS:
Dizziness, headache, drowsiness, fatigue, cough, increased urination, impotence or constipation may occur the first few days as your body adjusts to LOTENSIN HCT. Notify your doctor if these effects continue or become bothersome. To avoid dizziness or lightheadedness when rising from a seated or lying position, get up slowly. Inform your doctor if you develop chest Inform your doctor if you notice any of these serious side effects: pain, irregular heartbeat, tingling of the hands or feet, mouth sores, sore throat of trouble swallowing, diarrhea, leg cramps, dry cough. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

HOW TO USE LOTENSIN HCT:
LOTENSIN HCT: Take LOTENSIN HCT exactly as prescribed. Try to take it at the same time each day so you remember to take it. Can be taken without regard to meals. Do not stop taking LOTENSIN HCT without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased. It is important to continue taking LOTENSIN HCT even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick. Your doctor may schedule periodic visits to check your blood pressure and do laboratory work to see how effective the medication is.

LOTENSIN HCT WARNING:
LOTENSIN HCT can cause serious fetal harm if used during the last six months of pregnancy. If pregnancy occurs, stop using LOTENSIN HCT and immediately contact your physician.

LOTENSIN HCT USES:
Benazepril is an ACE inhibitor which prevents certain enzymes in the body from narrowing blood vessels. This helps to lower blood pressure and makes the heart beat stronger. Thiazides are "water pills" (diuretics) that remove excess water from the body, thus lowering blood pressure. This combination medication is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension).

LOTENSIN HCT PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of of: liver or kidney problems, heart disease; urinary problems, diabetes, any allergies (especially to sulfa drugs). The hydrochlorothiazide in LOTENSIN HCT may increase your sensitivity to sunlight. Avoid prolonged sun exposure. If you become sun sensitive, use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Limit your intake of alcohol and use caution when exercising and during hot weather because these factors may increase the risk of dizziness. LOTENSIN HCT should be used only when clearly needed during the first three months of pregnancy. It is not recommended for use during the last six months of the pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. LOTENSIN HCT is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

LOTENSIN HCT DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Inform your doctor about all the medicine you use (both prescription and nonprescription), especially of: lithium, potassium supplements, potassium-sparing "water pills" (diuretics), NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen). Avoid drugs that may increase your heart rate such as decongestants or caffeine. Decongestants are commonly found in cough-and-cold medicines. Read drug labels carefully. If you are uncertain your drug products increase heart rate, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

LOTENSIN HCT OVERDOSE:
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include dizziness, fainting, and weakness.

LOTENSIN HCT NOTES:
It is important to have your blood pressure checked regularly while taking LOTENSIN HCT. Learn how to monitor your blood pressure. Discuss this with your doctor.

MISSED LOTENSIN HCT DOSE:
If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

LOTENSIN HCT STORAGE:
Store at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture.