Key takeaways:
Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) is a combination medication that treats high blood pressure in adults. The recommended starting dosage is 10 mg benazepril / 12.5 mg hydrochlorothiazide once daily.
From there, your prescriber may increase your dose every 2 to 3 weeks if needed. The maximum recommended Lotensin HCT dosage is 20 mg benazepril / 25 mg hydrochlorothiazide per day.
In most cases, Lotensin HCT won’t be the first medication you take for high blood pressure. If you’re switching from another medication to Lotensin HCT, follow your prescriber’s instructions carefully. This will help ensure you aren’t taking too many blood pressure medications at once.
Combination blood pressure medications can help manage your blood pressure with fewer daily pills. Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) is a common example. It’s an oral tablet that combines an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor (benazepril) with a diuretic (hydrochlorothiazide, also known as HCT).
Understanding the recommended dosage for your blood pressure medication can help ensure you’re taking it correctly. Here, we’ll review the FDA-approved Lotensin HCT dosage for adults. This medication isn’t approved for children at this time. Keep in mind that you should always follow your prescriber’s dosage instructions, even if they differ from what’s described below.
For high blood pressure, the typical starting Lotensin HCT dosage is 10 mg benazepril / 12.5 mg hydrochlorothiazide once daily. From there, your prescriber may increase your dose every 2 to 3 weeks depending on how you respond to the medication. The maximum recommended Lotensin HCT dosage is 20 mg benazepril / 25 mg hydrochlorothiazide per day.
Keep in mind that in most cases, Lotensin HCT won’t be the first medication you’re prescribed. Often, you’ll start taking benazepril or hydrochlorothiazide on its own before switching to the combination medication. In this case, be sure to follow your prescriber’s instructions for stopping your current medication and starting Lotensin HCT to avoid taking more of an ingredient than intended.
Lotensin HCT doesn’t require a different dosage if you’re living with mild to moderate liver or kidney problems. But if you have severe liver or kidney problems, it may not be the best medication for you. Your healthcare team will look at your medical history before prescribing Lotensin HCT. But be sure they’re aware if you’re living with liver or kidney issues.
If you miss a dose of Lotensin HCT, take it as soon as you remember. But if it’s almost time for your next dose, it’s fine to skip the missed one and continue with your normal schedule. Don’t take two doses to make up for one you missed.
If you miss several doses in a row, or you’re having trouble remembering your medication, let your prescriber know. They can help get you back on track with your medication and provide tips to help you remember your dose. Common tools include setting an alarm or using a medication reminder app on your phone.
If you take an extra dose of Lotensin HCT by mistake, it’s not likely to cause harm. You may experience more side effects of benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide, such as low blood pressure, dizziness, and muscle cramps.
If you take a large amount of Lotensin HCT, it may cause dangerously low blood pressure or electrolyte imbalances. If you or a loved one take too much Lotensin HCT, contact Poison Control online or by phone at 1-800-222-1222. You can also reach out to your prescriber’s office for guidance. If symptoms appear that seem life-threatening, such as severe dizziness or vomiting, seek emergency care.
Combination blood pressure medications: Learn about different medications, such as Lotensin HCT, that combine more than one ingredient to treat blood pressure.
Choosing a blood pressure medication: Read about the different blood pressure medications available and what goes into choosing the right option for you.
Lotensin HCT side effects: Review common and rare side effects of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, such as benzapril, and hydrochlorothiazide, since they’re both contained in Lotensin HCT.
Lotensin HCT is available as both a brand-name and generic medication. GoodRx can help you save over 80% off the average retail price of the generic version. Generic Lotensin HCT’s price at certain pharmacies is as low as $29.85 for a 90-day supply with a free GoodRx discount.
Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) is a combination medication that treats high blood pressure in adults. The recommended starting dosage is 10 mg benazepril / 12.5 mg hydrochlorothiazide once daily. From there, your prescriber may increase your dose every 2 to 3 weeks if needed. The maximum recommended Lotensin HCT dosage is 20 mg benazepril / 25 mg hydrochlorothiazide per day.
In most cases, Lotensin HCT won’t be the first medication you take for high blood pressure. If you’re switching from another medication to Lotensin HCT, follow your prescriber’s instructions carefully. This will help ensure you aren’t taking too many blood pressure medications at once.
MedlinePlus. (2023). Benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide.
Validus Pharmaceuticals. (2023). Lotensin HCT- benazepril hydrochloride and hydrochlorothiazide tablet [package insert].
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