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Benazepril Coupon - Benazepril 40mg tablet

benazepril

Generic Lotensin
Used for Hypertension
Used for Hypertension

Benazepril (Lotensin) is a first-choice medication used to lower blood pressure. It's taken by mouth, typically once or twice daily. Some of the more common side effects of benazepril (Lotensin) include headache and dizziness. You shouldn't take this medication if you're pregnant because it can cause serious complications and birth defects. Benazepril (Lotensin) is available as a lower cost generic.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Allison Gourley, PharmD
reviewer
Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
Last reviewed on March 12, 2023
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostContraindicationsAlternativesLatest newsImagesReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Benazepril (Lotensin)?

What is Benazepril (Lotensin) used for?

  • High blood pressure

How Benazepril (Lotensin) works

Benazepril (Lotensin) is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. It blocks the production of a chemical that tightens blood vessels. Without this chemical, you blood vessels relax and your body holds on to less fluid. This causes your blood pressure to go down.

Are you looking for information on Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsLotensin
Drug ClassACE inhibitor
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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What are the side effects of Benazepril (Lotensin)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Headache (6%)
  • Dizziness (4%)
  • Tiredness (2%)

Other Side Effects

  • Cough
  • Rash
  • Nausea
  • Muscle pain

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Angioedema: swelling (in the face, lips, tongue, throat, hands, or feet), trouble breathing, wheezing, nausea, vomiting
  • Severe allergic reaction: trouble breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Serious kidney problems: urinating less often than usual, swelling in your feet, ankles, or hands, unexplained weight gain
  • High blood potassium levels: nausea, tiredness, chest pain, muscle weakness, tingling or numbness, pounding heart, nausea
  • Severely low blood pressure: lightheadedness, dizziness, feeling faint, tiredness, confusion

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

Less common

Chills

cold sweats

confusion

dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position

unusual tiredness or weakness

Incidence not known

Arm, back, or jaw pain

blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin

bloating or swelling of the face, arms, hands, lower legs, or feet

chest pain or discomfort

diarrhea

fast, irregular, pounding, or racing heartbeat or pulse

feeling of warmth

fever

general feeling of tiredness or weakness

itching

joint or muscle pain

large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs

nausea

rapid breathing

rapid weight gain

red skin lesions, often with a purple center

red, irritated eyes

redness of the face, neck, arms, and occasionally, upper chest

skin rash

sore throat

sores, ulcers, or white spots in the mouth or on the lips

sweating

tingling of the hands or feet

unusual weight gain or loss

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Headache

Less common

Cough

dizziness

sleepiness or unusual drowsiness

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Benazepril (Lotensin)

thumbs-up

Pros

A first-choice blood pressure medication for many people

Can protect kidney function in people with diabetes or mild-to-moderate kidney disease

Lowers the risk of heart attack and stroke in people with high blood pressure

Available as a lower-cost generic

thumbs-down

Cons

Can cause dry cough

Can't take if you're pregnant

Might not work as well in Black people

Can cause dizziness and raise the risk for falls

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Benazepril (Lotensin)

pharmacist

  • You can take benazepril (Lotensin) with or without food. Food won't affect how well this medication works for you.

    • Benazepril (Lotensin) can cause dizziness. You're more likely to experience dizziness when you first start taking benazepril (Lotensin), or when your provider raise your dose. The should get better over time as you continue taking the medication and your body gets used to your new blood pressure. But let your provider know if you continue to experience dizziness because they might need to lower your dose of benazepril (Lotensin) or switch you to a different medication.

      • Some people get a dry cough while taking benazepril (Lotensin). This can happen at any time, even if you've been taking the medication for years. You can still have a cough for many weeks after stopping benazepril (Lotensin). Let your provider know if the cough bothers you because they can help choose a different blood pressure medication for you.

        • If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Don't "double up" to make up for the missed dose as this can drop your blood pressure too much.

          • Though rare, benazepril (Lotensin) can cause liver or kidney problems in some people. It can also raise potassium levels, which can be dangerous. Your provider might order blood tests to check your kidney or liver health, or potassium levels.

            faqs

            Frequently asked questions about Benazepril (Lotensin)

            How long does benazepril (Lotensin) last?
            The effects of a dose of benazepril (Lotensin) typically last a little less than a day (about 19 hours). Depending on how your body responds to benazepril (Lotensin) and how your blood pressure differs throughout the day, your provider might ask you to take this medication once or twice a day.
            Can I drink alcohol with benazepril (Lotensin)?
            You're recommended to avoid alcohol or drink alcohol in moderation if you have high blood pressure. Alcohol doesn't affect how benazepril (Lotensin) works in your body. But drinking alcohol regularly can raise your blood pressure. In addition, drinking a lot of alcohol in a short period of time can cause a drop in your blood pressure, which raises your risk for dizziness and falls. Let your provider know if you drink alcohol regularly. They can talk with you about how much you should limit your alcohol intake to lower your risk of side effects.
            Does benazepril (Lotensin) make me urinate more?
            No. Benazepril (Lotensin) isn't a diuretic or "water pill", so it shouldn't make you urinate more than usual. Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide), on the other hand, is a combination medication that also contains a diuretic, hydrochlorothiazide. Lotensin HCT will make you urinate more.
            Can benazepril (Lotensin) make me gain weight?
            Weight gain isn't a known side effect of benazepril (Lotensin).
            Is benazepril (Lotensin) better than other ACE inhibitors?
            It's hard to say whether one ACE inhibitor is better than the others. All ACE inhibitors have similar effects on your blood pressure. But there are some differences between them. 1) One difference is how many times a day they're taken. For example, you'll typically take benazepril (Lotensin) once or twice daily, but you'll typically need to take captopril three times a day. 2) Another difference is what other medical conditions they can treat. For example benazepril (Lotensin) is FDA-approved to lower blood pressure. But lisinopril (Zestril) is approved to ease heart failure symptoms and to lower the risk of death from a heart attack, in addition to lowering blood pressure. Make sure to discuss your full medical history with your healthcare provider so that they can help select the best one for you.
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            What are the risks and warnings for Benazepril (Lotensin)?

            Benazepril (Lotensin) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

            risk-warning

            Birth defects

            Benazepril (Lotensin) can cause birth defects (e.g., issues with skeleton development, lung development, problems with the unborn baby's kidneys, or even death). The risk is higher if you take this medication during the second or third trimester of pregnancy. If you're pregnant, let your provider know right away and stop taking benazepril (Lotensin) as soon as possible.

            risk-warning

            Swelling of face, lips, tongue (angioedema)

            • Risk factors: Taking mTOR inhibitors with benazepril (Lotensin) | Black people

              Angioedema (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, throat, or other organs) can happen at any time while you're taking benazepril (Lotensin). Sometimes, angioedema can affect your stomach and you might experience symptoms such as nausea of vomiting. You're more likely to experience angioedema if you're Black, an older adult, or female. Get medical help right away if you have trouble breathing, swelling of the tongue, nausea, or vomiting.

              risk-warning

              Worsening kidney problems

              • Risk factors: History of kidney problems | Severe congestive heart failure

                Benazepril (Lotensin) is usually good for the kidneys. But in some cases it can make kidney problems worse. The risk is higher for people who have certain types of kidney problems, such as renal artery stenosis or very severe heart failure. Your provider might order lab tests every so often to make sure your kidneys are healthy and working properly. Your provider will check your kidneys before starting benazepril (Lotensin) and regularly as needed. Let your provider know if you're urinating less often than usual, as this could be a sign that your kidneys aren't working as well.

                risk-warning

                Heart problems due to high potassium

                • Risk factors: Diabetes | Kidney problems | Taking other medications that also raise potassium

                  Benazepril (Lotensin) can raise the amount of potassium in your body, which can be dangerous. Your risk of developing high potassium is greater if you have diabetes, kidney problems, or are taking other medications that also raise potassium levels. For this reason, make sure your provider knows your full medical history and what medications you're taking before starting benazepril (Lotensin). If you experience signs of high potassium levels, such as nausea, muscle weakness, or abnormal heartbeat, tell your healthcare provider right away.

                  risk-warning

                  Dangerously low blood pressure

                  • Risk factors: Heart failure | Dialysis | Low fluids in the body | Taking other medicines that lower your blood pressure

                    Benazepril (Lotensin) lowers your blood pressure and can make you feel lightheaded or dizzy. Your risk of developing dangerously low blood pressure is greater if you have heart problems or if you're dehydrated (not enough fluid in your body). If you start to feel lightheaded or dizzy on this medication, especially right after a dose change, make sure to hold onto something when you're getting up from a sitting or lying down position. Also, call your provider right away.

                    risk-warning

                    Liver failure

                    In some rare cases, people who took ACE inhibitors like benazepril (Lotensin) have developed a blocked bile duct. This condition can lead to liver problems or liver failure. Your provider might order blood tests to check your liver health from time to time. If you notice symptoms of liver problems, such as tiredness, stomach pain, or yellowing of your skin, let your provider know right away.

                    dosage

                    Benazepril (Lotensin) dosage forms

                    The average cost for 90 tablets of 40mg of Benazepril (Lotensin) is $10.00 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 73.64% off the average retail price of $37.93.
                    tablet
                    Tablet
                    DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                    5mg30 tablets$3.60$0.12
                    10mg90 tablets$12.60$0.14
                    20mg90 tablets$10.00$0.11
                    40mg90 tablets$10.00$0.11

                    Typical dosing for Benazepril (Lotensin)

                    Adults

                    • The typical starting dose of benazepril (Lotensin) is 10 mg by mouth once daily. The recommended maintenance dose ranges from 20 mg to 40 mg taken once daily, or split into two doses and taken twice daily. If you're also taking a water pill, the typical starting dose of benazepril (Lotensin) is 5 mg by mouth once daily.

                    Children (age 6 years and older)

                    • Your child's provider will calculate your child's dose based on their weight. The typical starting dose is 0.2 mg/kg taken by mouth once daily. If needed, your child's provider will raise their dose slowly over time. The maximum dose is 0.6 mg/kg once daily.

                    Your dose might differ if you've kidney problems.

                    interactions

                    Interactions between Benazepril (Lotensin) and other drugs

                    Benazepril (Lotensin) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Benazepril (Lotensin). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                    Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                    Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                    Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

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                    How much does Benazepril (Lotensin) cost?

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                    contraindications-icon

                    Benazepril (Lotensin) contraindications

                    Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Benazepril (Lotensin) will not be safe for you to take.
                    alternatives

                    What are alternatives to Benazepril (Lotensin)?

                    There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Benazepril (Lotensin). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                    Benazepril (Lotensin)
                    Used for:

                    • High blood pressure

                    $3.60 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                    Lisinopril (Zestril)
                    Used for:

                    • High blood pressure

                    • Heart failure

                    • Lower the risk for death after a heart attack

                    $4.00 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                    Enalapril (Vasotec)
                    Used for:

                    • High blood pressure

                    • Heart failure

                    $6.00 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
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                    What is the latest news about Benazepril (Lotensin)?

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                    Benazepril (Lotensin) images

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                    References

                    Best studies we found

                    Dahal, S. S., et al. (2023). Benazepril. StatPearls.

                    Heritage Pharmaceuticals Inc. d/b/a Avet Pharmaceuticals Inc. (2023). BENAZEPRIL HYDROCHLORIDE tablet [package insert]. DailyMed.

                    MedlinePlus. (2017). Benazepril.

                    View All References (3)

                    Montford, J.R., et al. (2017). How dangerous is hyperkalemia? Journal of the American Society of Nephrology : JASN.

                    Schoolwerth, A. C., et al. (2001). Renal considerations in angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor therapy: A statement for healthcare professionals from the Council on the Kidney in Cardiovascular Disease and the Council for High Blood Pressure Research of the American Heart Association. Circulation.

                    Whelton, P. K., et al. (2017). 2017 ACC/AHA/AAPA/ABC/ACPM/AGS/APhA/ASH/ASPC/NMA/PCNA guideline for the prevention, detection, evaluation, and management of high blood pressure in adults: A report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines. Hypertension.

                    GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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