Benazepril
Brands: Lotensin, Fortekor
Benazepril is an ACE inhibitor used in pets to treat heart conditions and hypertension.
Used for
- congestive heart failure
- hypertension
- chronic kidney disease
How it is given
- Administration
- oral
- Frequency
- once daily
- Duration
- long-term management
- Storage
- Store at room temperature, away from moisture and light.
- Pregnancy safety
- caution
Always confirm the exact dose with your veterinarian before giving any medicine.
Typical dose ranges
cat
- Standard
- 0.25 mg/lb once daily
dog
- Large dogs
- 0.25 mg/lb once daily
- Small dogs
- 0.25 mg/lb once daily
- Medium dogs
- 0.25 mg/lb once daily
Ranges are reference only. Your vet sets the dose for your pet's weight and condition.
Active ingredients
- Benazepril hydrochloride
Side effects
Common
- lethargy
- loss of appetite
Rare
- cough
Severe
- severe hypotension requiring vet attention
Do not use when
- pregnancy
- severe kidney impairment
Interacts with
- diuretics
- NSAIDs
Warnings
- monitor blood pressure
- use with caution in kidney disease
Benazepril questions
How long does benazepril take to work?
Improvement in symptoms can often be seen within a few weeks of starting treatment.
Can benazepril be given with food?
Yes, it can be given with or without food.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
Give the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it's close to the time for the next dose.
Is benazepril safe for pregnant pets?
Benazepril should be used with caution in pregnant animals.
Can benazepril be used long-term?
Yes, but regular monitoring by a veterinarian is essential.
Full drug detail
Overview
Benazepril is a medication commonly prescribed to pets, particularly dogs and cats, to manage heart conditions and hypertension. As an ACE inhibitor, it helps in relaxing blood vessels, thus improving circulation and reducing the workload on the heart.
How It Works
Benazepril functions by inhibiting the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), which is involved in producing a substance that narrows blood vessels. By blocking this enzyme, benazepril allows blood vessels to relax and widen, improving blood flow and lowering blood pressure.
Uses & Indications
Benazepril is primarily used to treat:
- Congestive heart failure
- Hypertension
- Chronic kidney disease
Dosage Guidelines
Dogs
- Small dogs: 0.25 mg/lb (0.5 mg/kg) once daily
- Medium dogs: 0.25 mg/lb (0.5 mg/kg) once daily
- Large dogs: 0.25 mg/lb (0.5 mg/kg) once daily
Cats
- Standard dosage: 0.25 mg/lb (0.5 mg/kg) once daily
Administration
Benazepril is administered orally, typically in tablet form.
Side Effects
Common
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
Rare
- Cough
Severe
- Severe hypotension requiring immediate veterinary attention
Precautions & Warnings
- Monitor blood pressure regularly.
- Use with caution in pets with kidney disease.
Drug Interactions
- Diuretics
- NSAIDs
Storage
Store benazepril at room temperature, away from moisture and light.
FAQ
How long does benazepril take to work?
Improvement in symptoms can often be seen within a few weeks of starting treatment.
Can benazepril be given with food?
Yes, it can be given with or without food.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
Give the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the time for the next dose.
Is benazepril safe for pregnant pets?
Benazepril should be used with caution in pregnant animals.
Can benazepril be used long-term?
Yes, but regular monitoring by a veterinarian is essential.