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Benazepril / HCTZ Coupon - Benazepril / HCTZ 20mg/12.5mg tablet

benazepril / HCTZ

Generic Lotensin HCT
Used for Hypertension
Used for Hypertension

Lotensin HCT is a combination blood pressure medication for adults. It contains benazepril (an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor) and hydrochlorothiazide (a thiazide diuretic). It's available as a brand name and lower-cost generic tablet that's taken by mouth once per day. The dosage will generally depend on how high your blood pressure is and if you're taking, or have recently taken, other blood pressure medications. Some common side effects of Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) include dizziness, tiredness, and headache.

Last reviewed on August 14, 2024
basics-icon

What is Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide)?

What is Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) used for?

How Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) works

Lotensin HCT is a combination of two medications that work together to lower blood pressure:

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

Drug Facts

Common BrandsLotensin HCT
Drug ClassACE inhibitor / Diuretic (water pill) combo
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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Avg retail price
$170.52(save 48.33%)
GoodRx discount
$88.10
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What are the side effects of Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide)?

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

  • Dizziness (6%)
  • Tiredness (5%)
  • Dizziness when suddenly standing up (4%)
  • Headache (3%)
  • Cough (2%)

Other Side Effects

  • Nausea
  • Difficulty getting or maintaining an erection
  • Sleepiness
  • "Spinning" sensation

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Angioedema (severe swelling): swelling of the face, arms or legs, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Severe allergic reaction: swelling of your lips, tongue, throat, or face, trouble breathing, rash
  • Dangerously low blood pressure: dizziness, lightheadedness, pale skin, feeling faint
  • Serious kidney problems: urinating less often than usual, swelling in your feet, ankles, or hands, unexplained weight gain
  • Liver problems: yellowing of the skin or eyes, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, 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

Blurred vision

confusion

decreased urination

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

dry mouth

fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat

muscle cramps or pain

numbness, tingling, pain, or weakness in the hands or feet

rapid breathing

seizures

sunken eyes

sweating

thirst

trembling

unusual tiredness or weakness

weakness and heaviness of the legs

wrinkled skin

Rare

Black, tarry stools

bloating

burning, crawling, itching, numbness, prickling, "pins and needles" , or tingling feelings

chest pain

chills

constipation

cough or hoarseness

darkened urine

diarrhea

dizziness or lightheadedness

feeling of constant movement of self or surroundings

fever

headache

indigestion

loss of appetite

lower back or side pain

nausea

painful or difficult urination

pains in the stomach or side, possibly radiating to the back

persistent non-healing sore

pink growth

reddish patch or irritated area

sensation of spinning

shiny bump

sore throat

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

swollen glands

trouble breathing

unusual bleeding or bruising

vomiting

white, yellow or waxy scar-like area

yellow eyes or skin

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:

Less common

Cough

decreased interest in sexual intercourse

excessive muscle tone

feeling of constant movement of self or surroundings

inability to have or keep an erection

loss in sexual ability, desire, drive, or performance

muscle stiffness

muscle tension or tightness

sensation of spinning

sleepiness or unusual drowsiness

Rare

Blistering, peeling, loosening of the skin

diarrhea

hives or welts, itching, skin rash

increased sensitivity of skin to sunlight

joint or muscle pain

pinpoint red or purple spots on the skin

redness of the skin

redness or other discoloration of the skin

red irritated eyes

red skin lesions, often with a purple center

severe sunburn

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 Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide)

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Pros

Contains two first-choice medications for lowering blood pressure within a single pill

Taken by mouth once per day at any time of day

Available as a lower-cost generic

thumbs-down

Cons

Might take 2 to 3 weeks before maximum benefit

Only available as a tablet

Not safe to take during pregnancy or breastfeeding

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide)

pharmacist
  • Mark your calendar with your appointments to see your prescriber and to get any blood work done when you take Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide). Your care team will order tests (e.g., electrolytes, kidney function, blood pressure) during treatment and might change your dose based on your results.

    • You can take Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) with or without food at any time of day. If it hurts your stomach, taking it with food might help.

      • You might want to check your blood pressure at home, keep a record of your readings, and bring this log to your medical appointments. This helps your prescriber better understand how well Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) is working for you and they can recommend any dose changes if needed.

        • Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) can cause dizziness or headaches, especially when you first start taking it or when your healthcare team raises the dose. These symptoms should lessen as you continue taking the medication. Stand up slowly from sitting or lying positions to prevent falls. Let your prescriber know if you feel faint, lightheaded, or confused.

          • Dry cough is a well-known side effect of ACE-inhibitors, like benazepril. It's possible for you to get a cough from taking Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide). This side effect can appear at any time during treatment. If you get a cough from Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) and it's bothersome, talk to your prescriber. They might switch you to a different blood pressure medication.

            • Take Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) exactly as prescribed. Don't change your dose or stop taking the medication suddenly without talking to your prescriber first. Doing so can cause your blood pressure to rise quickly. You might need to lower your dose slowly over time before you can completely stop taking it.

              • It's best to avoid or limit how much alcohol you drink because it can cause a drop in your blood pressure. This can lead to dizziness and falls.

                • Make sure to maintain a balanced diet, including a low-salt diet, while taking Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) to help lower your blood pressure. Depending on your risk factors and other medical problems, it's possible you might be able to stop taking Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) if your blood pressure gets within goal.

                  • If you're pregnant, thinking of getting pregnant, or breastfeeding and are taking Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide), contact your prescriber right away. Your prescriber will likely recommend a different medication that's safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

                    faqs

                    Frequently asked questions about Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide)

                    Is Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) a beta blocker?
                    No, Lotensin HCT doesn't contain a beta blocker. Instead, it's a combination of benazepril (an ACE inhibitor) and hydrochlorothiazide (a thiazide diuretic). While beta blockers, ACE inhibitors, and diuretics all work to lower blood pressure, they do so in different ways. Depending on how severe your high blood pressure is, or if you have other heart conditions, your prescriber might have you take a beta blocker with Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide). Ask your healthcare team if you've more questions on the different types of blood pressure medications.
                    How long does Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) stay in your system?
                    It takes about 2 days for benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide to leave your body after a dose of Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide). This time frame is estimated based on the half-life of these medications. It can take longer for the medication to leave the body in people with kidney problems because Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) is removed by the kidneys. Talk with your healthcare team if you have any specific concerns related to how long this medication stays in your body.
                    Does Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) cause hair loss?
                    Hair loss was reported by up to 1% of people who took Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) in clinical studies. But it's unclear whether the hair loss was caused by Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) or other factors. If you notice hair loss while you're taking Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide), contact a healthcare professional so they can help you figure out what might be the cause.
                    Does Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) lower heart rate?
                    Unlike some other blood pressure medications, Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) isn't known to lower heart rate. If you notice your heart rate dropping after starting Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide), let your healthcare team know. They can run some tests to see what might be the cause of the low heart rate. And if your heart rate drops dangerously low (below 40 beats per minute), get medical help right away.
                    Can Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) be cut in half?
                    Yes, Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) tablets can be cut in half because they have a score-line down the middle of the tablet. The score-line is to help you split the pills in half evenly. If you'd rather not cut Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) tablets, talk to your prescriber about switching you to a different blood pressure medication.
                    Is Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) a controlled substance?
                    No, Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) isn't a controlled substance because it doesn't have a risk of addiction or dependence.
                    Are benazepril and HCTZ the same?
                    No, benazepril and HCTZ (also known as hydrochlorothiazide) are two different medications. While they're both first-choice options for treating high blood pressure, they work differently from each other. Benazepril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor that opens up your blood vessels and hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic that helps your body release extra fluid. Your healthcare team might recommend Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) if you need to take both medications because it combines the two into a single pill for convenience.
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                    What are the risks and warnings for Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide)?

                    Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) 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

                    Not for use during pregnancy

                    Benazepril in Lotensin HCT can cause severe and sometimes life-threatening harm to unborn babies, so it shouldn't be taken during pregnancy. If you find out that you're pregnant while taking Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide), stop and let your prescriber know right away. If you're pregnant before starting Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) or thinking of becoming pregnant during treatment, discuss with your healthcare professional (HCP) about safer options to treat your blood pressure.

                    risk-warning

                    Angioedema (swelling)

                    • Risk factors: Black people | Having angioedema in the past

                      People who take medications that contain an ACE inhibitor, like benazepril in Lotensin HCT, can experience a rare, but serious side effect called angioedema. This involves swelling in different parts of the body, including the face, throat, and tongue. Swelling of the tongue or throat area can be potentially life-threatening, since it can make it difficult to breathe. Angioedema can happen at any time during treatment. This risk is higher in Black people than in non-Black people. Get medical attention immediately if you experience swelling in any of the areas mentioned above, stomach pain, or difficulty breathing. You'll have to stop taking Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) if this happens.

                      risk-warning

                      Low blood pressure

                      • Risk factors: Not enough fluid in your body | Having diarrhea or vomiting for a long time | Low salt levels in your body | Taking higher doses of diuretic medications

                        Sometimes, taking Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) can cause your blood pressure to drop too much. This can cause you to feel dizzy, tired, or lightheaded. This side effect is more common when you first start Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) or when the dose is raised. Make sure to stay well-hydrated. If your blood pressure drops too much and you feel dizzy, make sure to sit down slowly while holding onto something and let your care team know. If you fall and hit your head, get medical help right away. If you feel dizzy, lightheaded, faint, tired, or confused while taking Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide), contact your prescriber.

                        risk-warning

                        Kidney damage

                        • Risk factors: Severe heart failure | Kidney problems | Not enough fluid in your body | Taking other medications that can cause kidney damage | History of narrow heart valves (aortic stenosis)

                          Sometimes, Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) can affect your kidneys and cause them to not work as well. The risk is higher for people who have certain types of kidney problems, such as renal artery stenosis or very severe heart failure. Your prescriber might order lab tests every so often to make sure your kidneys are healthy and working properly. If you develop kidney problems, or if your kidney problems worsen while taking Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide), your prescriber might recommend that you stop taking this medication. Let your prescriber 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

                          Liver failure

                          Rarely, people who took ACE inhibitors like benazepril in Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) have developed a blocked bile duct. This condition can lead to liver problems or liver failure. Your prescriber 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 care team know right away.

                          risk-warning

                          Changes in electrolyte, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels

                          Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) can affect the level of certain electrolytes in your body, including sodium, potassium, and magnesium. Your prescriber might order blood work regularly while you're taking this medication to make sure your electrolyte levels are in a safe range. Let your care team know if you experience a fast heart beat, weakness, low energy, muscle pain or cramps, less urination than usual, nausea, or vomiting. These can be signs of electrolyte changes in your body.

                          In addition, Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) might affect your blood sugar levels and cholesterol levels. Your prescriber might also check your blood sugar and cholesterol levels regularly while you're taking this medication.

                          risk-warning

                          Vision problems

                          • Risk factors: Sulfa or penicillin allergies

                            Though rare, some people experience vision changes within hours or weeks after starting Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) because of the hydrochlorothiazide part of the medication. Tell your prescriber right away about any vision changes or eye pain and stop taking Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) as soon as possible. In some cases, surgery might be required to avoid permanent vision loss.

                            risk-warning

                            Lupus

                            In some rare cases, Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) can cause worsening of or new lupus. Let your prescriber know if you notice a rash across your cheeks and nose or feel very tired.

                            dosage

                            Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) dosage forms

                            The average cost for 90 tablets of 20mg/12.5mg of Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) is $88.10 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 48.33% off the average retail price of $170.52.
                            tablet
                            Tablet
                            DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                            10mg/12.5mg30 tablets$88.10$2.94
                            20mg/12.5mg30 tablets$88.10$2.94
                            20mg/25mg30 tablets$88.10$2.94

                            Typical dosing for Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide)

                            Your prescriber will pick a starting dose based on things like how high your blood pressure is, which other blood pressure medications you're currently taking or have recently taken, and your risk for side effects.

                            • Adults: The typical starting dose is 10 mg/12.5 mg (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) by mouth once daily. If needed, your prescriber will raise your dose every 2 to 3 weeks. The maximum dose is 20 mg/25 mg (benazepril/hydrochlorothiazide) daily.

                            More on Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) dosage forms

                            interactions

                            Interactions between Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) and other drugs

                            Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) 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 Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide). 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.

                            drug-cost

                            How much does Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) cost?

                            To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.
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                            contraindications-icon

                            Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) 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 Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) will not be safe for you to take.
                            alternatives

                            What are alternatives to Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide)?

                            There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                            Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide)
                            Used for:
                            $88.10 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                            Used for:
                            $11.43 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                            images

                            Lotensin HCT (benazepril / hydrochlorothiazide) images

                            Purple Oblong E211 - Benazepril Hydrochloride / Hydrochlorothiazide 20mg-12.5mg Tablet
                            This medicine is Purple, Oblong, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "E211".Purple Oblong E211 - Benazepril Hydrochloride / Hydrochlorothiazide 20mg-12.5mg Tablet
                            Beige Oblong M 745 - Benazepril Hydrochloride / Hydrochlorothiazide 20mg-12.5mg Tablet
                            This medicine is Beige, Oblong, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "M 745".Beige Oblong M 745 - Benazepril Hydrochloride / Hydrochlorothiazide 20mg-12.5mg Tablet
                            Purple Oblong 453 453 And Lotensin Hct - Benazepril Hydrochloride / Hydrochlorothiazide 20mg-12.5mg Tablet
                            This medicine is Purple, Oblong, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "Lotensin Hct" And "453 453".Purple Oblong 453 453 And Lotensin Hct - Benazepril Hydrochloride / Hydrochlorothiazide 20mg-12.5mg Tablet
                            Purple Round Apo And 20 12.5 - Benazepril Hydrochloride / Hydrochlorothiazide 20mg-12.5mg Tablet
                            This medicine is Purple, Round, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "Apo" And "20 12.5".Purple Round Apo And 20 12.5 - Benazepril Hydrochloride / Hydrochlorothiazide 20mg-12.5mg Tablet
                            Pink Oblong An 16 - Benazepril Hydrochloride / Hydrochlorothiazide 20mg-12.5mg Tablet
                            This medicine is Pink, Oblong, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "An 16".Pink Oblong An 16 - Benazepril Hydrochloride / Hydrochlorothiazide 20mg-12.5mg Tablet
                            Purple Oblong 453 453 And Lotensin Hct - Benazepril Hydrochloride / Hydrochlorothiazide 20mg-12.5mg Tablet
                            This medicine is Purple, Oblong, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "Lotensin Hct" And "453 453".Purple Oblong 453 453 And Lotensin Hct - Benazepril Hydrochloride / Hydrochlorothiazide 20mg-12.5mg Tablet
                            Purple Oblong E211 - Benazepril Hydrochloride / Hydrochlorothiazide 20mg-12.5mg Tablet
                            This medicine is Purple, Oblong, Scored Tablet Imprinted With "E211".Purple Oblong E211 - Benazepril Hydrochloride / Hydrochlorothiazide 20mg-12.5mg Tablet

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                            References

                            Best studies we found

                            National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2014). Renal artery stenosis.

                            Validus Pharmaceuticals LLC. (2023). Lotensin HCT- benazepril hydrochloride and hydrochlorothiazide tablet [package insert]. DailyMed.

                            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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