General Information on Lotensin HCT
Lotensin HCT consists of two medicines, Hydrochlorothiazide and Benazepril, and is indicated for the treatment of hypertension. Hydrochlorothiazide is listed as a diuretic and prevents fluid retention. Benazepril, an ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme) inhibitor, relaxes the blood vessels and arteries. It also provides relief from symptoms associated with fluid retention.
Lotensin HCT is administered orally and is available in form of oral tablets. The drug is supplied in following strengths – Lotensin HCT 5mg/6.25mg (5mg of Hydrochlorothiazide and 6.25 mg of Benazepril), Lotensin HCT 10mg/12.5mg (10mg of Hydrochlorothiazide and 12.5 mg of Benazepril), Lotensin HCT 20mg/12.5mg (20mg of Hydrochlorothiazide and 12.25 mg of Benazepril), and Lotensin 20mg/25mg (20mg of Hydrochlorothiazide and 25 mg of Benazepril).
In addition to the two active ingredients, oral tablets may contain the following excipients: cellulose compounds, hydrogenated castor oil, titanium dioxide, crospovidone, iron oxides, polyethylene glycol, lactose, and talc.
Side effects of Lotensin HCT
You should not buy Lotensin HCT if:
- You have a known allergy to Hydrochlorothiazide
- You have a known allergy to Benazepril
- You have a known allergy to any other Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitor
Consult your doctor if you experience any of the following side effects and they cause discomfort:
- Headache
- Cough
- Increased sweating
- Constipation
- Upset stomach
- Nausea
Consult your doctor if you experience any of the side effects listed below:
- Signs of a liver disorder (nausea, dark urine, loss of appetite, tarry stools, yellow eyes or skin)
- Signs of an allergic reaction (wheezing, trouble swallowing, trouble breathing, severe skin rashes, severe itching, swelling of the lips, throat, or tongue, or facial flushness)
- Signs of increased potassium levels (weak pulse, tingly feeling, slow heart rate, muscle weakness)
- Vision problems
- Unusual or easy bleeding, easy bruising
During treatment with Lotensin HCT, you should:
- Avoid excessive intake of salt substitutes
- Avoid potassium-rich diet or potassium supplements
- Follow your doctor’s advice about drinks and foods you should consume
Before you buy Lotensin HCT, inform your doctor if you have or have had any of the following:
- Chronic heart failure
- Diabetes
- Kidney disease
- Lupus
- Liver disease
- Glaucoma
Lotensin HCT is contraindicated in pregnancy as it can lead to fetal abnormalities. Do not use this drug if you are pregnant. If you become pregnant during the course of treatment, inform your physician about it.
Lotensin HCT may harm a breastfeeding child. Do not breast feed during treatment unless approved by your doctor.
Dosage of Lotensin HCT
The exact dosage of Lotensin HCT varies from patient to patient and is dependent on the following factors:
- Patient’s age
- Patient’s medical history
- Other drugs that patient are taking
- Patient’s tolerance and response to treatment
The recommended dosage range of Benazepril for treatment of hypertension is 10 to 80 mg. The recommended dosage range of Hydrochlorothiazide for treatment of hypertension is 6.25 to 25 mg.
Interactions
Drugs that are likely to interact with Lotensin HCT include:
- NSAIDs such as naproxen, aspirin, indomethacin, diclofenac, ibuprofen, celecoxib, and others
- Other water pills
- lithium
- Oral drugs used for treatment of diabetes
It is important that, before using Lotensin HCT, you inform your doctor if you are using any of the drugs listed above.
