amlodipine / benazepril
Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) combines two first-choice medications to lower your blood pressure. In addition, it helps lower your risk for heart attack, stroke, and heart failure. But to get the most out of the medication, you're encouraged to maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise routine. Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) is taken by mouth, typically once daily. It's available as a lower-cost generic.
What is Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril)?
What is Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) used for?
- High blood pressure
How Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) works
Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) is a combination of two medications that work together to lower blood pressure.
- Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker (CCB). It works by relaxing your blood vessels to lower your blood pressure.
- Benazepril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. It relaxes your blood vessels by blocking the ACE protein that typically squeezes your blood vessels.
Drug facts
Side effects of Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril)
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
- Cough (3%)
- Headache (2%)
- Swelling in the hands and feet (2%)
- Dizziness (1%)
Less Common Side Effects
- Rash
- Reddening of skin (flushing)
- Sleepiness
Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) 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
- Heart attack: tightness and pain in the chest, neck, arms, or back; cold and clammy skin; sweating; dizziness; tiredness
- Serious kidney problems: urinating less often than usual, swelling in your feet, ankles, or hands, unexplained weight gain
- High blood potassium levels: nausea, muscle weakness, tingling sensation, abnormal heartbeat
- Dangerously low blood pressure: dizziness, lightheadedness, pale skin, feeling faint or fainting
- Severe liver problems: swelling of your stomach, yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes, confusion, dark or brown urine
The following Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) 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
Confusion
dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting
fast or irregular heartbeat
nervousness
numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, or lips
swelling of the ankles, feet, or lower legs
weakness or heaviness of the legs
Rare
Bleeding gums
chills
nausea or vomiting
nosebleeds
pale skin
sores, ulcers, or white spots on the lips, tongue, or inside the mouth
stomach pain or bloating with fever, nausea, or vomiting
swelling of the face, mouth, hands, or feet
trouble with swallowing or breathing (sudden) or hoarseness
unusual bleeding or bruising
unusual tiredness or weakness
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 (dry and continuous)
feeling of warmth
redness of the face, neck, arms, and occasionally upper chest
sleepiness
Incidence not known
Belching
blistering, crusting, irritation, itching, or reddening of the skin
body aches or pain
cracked, dry, or scaly skin
decreased interest in sexual intercourse
difficulty having a bowel movement
inability to have or keep an erection
increased volume of pale, dilute urine
indigestion
lack or loss of strength
loss in sexual ability, desire, drive, or performance
muscle or bone pain
shakiness in the legs, arms, hands, or feet
stomach discomfort or upset
sudden sweating
swelling
tender, swollen glands in the neck
trembling or shaking of the hands or feet
trouble with sleeping
voice changes
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.
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Pros and cons of Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril)
Pros
- Contains two first-choice medications for treating high blood pressure
- Convenient to take a combination of two medications in one pill
- Only taken once daily
- Available as a lower-cost generic
Cons
- Not safe for pregnant or breastfeeding females
- More difficult to customize the dose since Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) is a fixed combination of two medications
- Can interact with commonly used medications, such as simvastatin (Zocor)
- Can cause swelling in the arms and legs
Pharmacist tips for Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril)
- Take Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) with or without food at any time of day.
- Take Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) exactly as prescribed. Don't change your dose or suddenly stop taking the medication without talking to your provider first. Doing so can cause your blood pressure to rise quickly.
- It's recommended that you check your blood pressure at home, record them, and bring your log to your medical appointments. Discuss with your provider about how well Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) is working for you. They can recommend any dose changes, if needed.
- If you accidentally forget to take Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril), take it as soon as you remember. But if the time you typically take your medication next is soon, then skip the missed dose. Never take two doses of Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) at the same time to make up any missed doses.
- You might feel dizzy when you start taking Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) and when your provider raises your dose. This side effect should lessen over time as you continue taking the medication and your body gets used to your new blood pressure.
- If you can, stand up slowly or hold onto something when you stand from a sitting or lying down position. This helps avoid a sudden drop in your blood pressure that can lead to dizziness and falling. If you feel dizzy, lightheaded, tired, or confused while taking Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril), your blood pressure might be too low. Call your provider if this happens because your dose might need to be changed.
- Some people experience swelling in their feet, ankles, legs, or hands when they take Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril). Talk with your provider if you notice swelling or if the swelling becomes too bothersome. They might recommend tips to ease the swelling, such as sitting or lying down with your legs raised or wearing compression socks.
- Having a healthy diet, including a low-salt diet, and regular exercise routine while taking Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) will further help lower your blood pressure.
- Try to limit foods high in potassium or limit using potassium-containing salt substitutes. Eating these types of foods with Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) might raise your potassium levels too much, which can lead to nausea, vomiting, or muscle weakness.
- It's best to avoid or limit how much alcohol you drink while taking Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril). Depending on how much you drink, alcohol can cause a drop in your blood pressure, which can make you dizzy and cause you to fall.
- Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) interacts some common medications, such as simvastatin (Zocor) and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAIDS). Make sure to tell your provider about all of the medications you're taking before starting Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril). Don't start any new medications while taking Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) without talking to your provider first.
- Make sure to mark your calendar with your appointments to see your provider and to get any blood work done when you take Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril). Your provider might order tests (e.g., potassium level, kidney health, blood pressure) during treatment and might change your dose of Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) based on your lab results.
Common questions about Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril)
It's unlikely that your provider will prescribe Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) for you if you've just been diagnosed with high blood pressure. Because Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) is a combination of two blood pressure medications, taking Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) can drop your blood pressure too low if you've never taken blood pressure medications before. Doing so can cause side effects such as dizziness or lightheadedness. Typically, providers prescribe Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) for people who've already been taking either amlodipine or benazepril (or similar medications), and might benefit from an additional blood pressure medication. Or, providers might prescribe Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) for people who want the convenience of taking a single pill after their blood pressure has been stable while taking amlodipine and benazepril separately. Ask your provider if you're not sure whether Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) is appropriate for you.
Even though you can't directly feel the effects of blood pressure medications like Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril), you can track how well they're working for you by checking your blood pressure regularly at home. Write down your blood pressure readings so you can review them with your provider and discuss how well Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) is working for you. Make sure to continue taking Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) even if you don't notice any improvements in your physical health. Managing your blood pressure helps prevent severe and life-threatening health problems, such as heart attack, stroke, and heart failure.
It can take about 2 weeks before you notice the full blood pressure-lowering effect from Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril). Keep in mind that it can take some time before your provider finds a dose that works best for you. They might need to adjust your dose depending on your blood pressure reading or if you're having side effects. Make sure to be patient, continue taking Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril), and follow up with your provider regularly.
Dry cough is a well-known side effect of ACE-inhibitors, like benazepril. It's possible for you to get a cough from taking Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) at anytime during treatment. If you get a cough from Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) and it's bothersome, talk to your provider. They'll likely stop Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) and choose a different blood pressure medication that's much less likely to cause this side effect, such as an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB).
No. Pregnant females shouldn't take Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) because it contains valsartan, which can cause severe harm to an unborn baby if taken during pregnancy. The medication can interfere with your unborn baby's kidney development and health, which can be life-threatening. If you're pregnant or thinking of getting pregnant, discuss with your provider about other treatments that might be safer during pregnancy.
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Risks and warnings for Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril)
Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) 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.
Not for use during pregnancy
Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) shouldn't be taken during pregnancy because it can cause severe, and sometimes life-threatening harm, to unborn babies. Tell your provider before starting treatment if you're pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant. They'll discuss with you about safer options to lower your blood pressure. If you find out that you're pregnant while taking Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril), stop the medication and let your provider know right away.
Angioedema (swelling)
- Risk factors: Black people | Having angioedema in the past
People who take medications that contain an ACE inhibitor, like Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril), 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 Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) if this happens.
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 high doses of diuretic medications | History of narrow heart valves (aortic stenosis)
Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) can cause your blood pressure to drop too much, which can make you feel dizzy, tired, or lightheaded. This side effect is more common when you first start Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) or when the dose is raised. Make sure to stay well hydrated to avoid having blood pressure that's too low. If your blood pressure drops too much and you feel dizzy, sit down slowly while holding onto something and let your provider know. If you fall and hit your head, get medical help right away.
Risk of heart attack or chest pain
- Risk factors: Severe coronary artery disease
It's possible for some people to experience worsening chest pain or develop a heart attack while taking Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril). The risk is higher when you first start this medication or when your dose is raised. Your risk is also higher if you have a heart problem called coronary artery disease (CAD). Get medical help right away if you experience chest pain, pressure in the chest, heartburn, dizziness, or trouble breathing.
Kidney damage
- Risk factors: Heart failure | Certain kidney problems | Taking other medications that can cause kidney damage
Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) can affect your kidneys and cause them to not work as well. This is especially true in people with heart failure, current kidney problems, or people who take medications that can worsen kidney function. Your provider 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 Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril), your provider might recommend that you stop taking this medication. 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.
High potassium levels
- Risk factors: Taking other medications that can raise potassium levels | Heart failure | Kidney problems
Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) can cause high potassium levels in the blood, even in people with healthy kidneys. Your risk is higher if you take other medications that can raise potassium, such as spironolactone (Aldactone). If you experience signs of high potassium levels, such as nausea, muscle weakness, or irregular heartbeat, tell your healthcare provider right away. They might want to measure your blood potassium level. If left untreated, high potassium levels can be dangerous.
Liver problems
- Risk factors: History of liver problems | Drinking large amounts of alcohol
Though rare, people who took Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) have experienced liver problems. Sometimes, this can be very serious. The reason for liver problems isn't clear. Get medical attention right away if you notice symptoms of liver problems, such as yellowing of your skin or the whites of your eyes, nausea, vomiting, or dark or brown urine. Your provider might ask you to stop taking Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) to prevent further liver damage.
Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) dosage
Capsule| Dosage | Quantity | Price as low as | Price per unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5mg/10mg | 90 capsules | $19.72 | $0.22 |
| 10mg/20mg | 90 capsules | $21.39 | $0.24 |
| 2.5mg/10mg | 90 capsules | $19.58 | $0.22 |
| 5mg/20mg | 90 capsules | $20.81 | $0.23 |
| 5mg/40mg | 90 capsules | $24.26 | $0.27 |
| 10mg/40mg | 30 capsules | $14.20 | $0.47 |
Typical dosage for Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril)
- The typical starting dose is Lotrel 2.5 mg/10 mg (amlodipine/benazepril) by mouth once daily. Your provider will adjust your dose based on how well it's helping your blood pressure and if you're having side effects. The maximum dose is Lotrel 10 mg/40 mg (amlodipine/benazepril) once daily.
Interactions between Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) and other drugs
Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may want to change the dose, or other precautions may be necessary. When you are taking this medicine, it is especially important that your healthcare professional know if you are taking any of the medicines listed below. The following interactions have been selected on the basis of their potential significance and are not necessarily all-inclusive.
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.
- Aliskiren
- Sacubitril
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.
- Abametapir
- Alteplase, Recombinant
- Amiloride
- Atazanavir
- Azathioprine
- Azilsartan
- Azilsartan Medoxomil
- Candesartan Cilexetil
- Canrenoate
- Ceritinib
- Clarithromycin
- Clopidogrel
- Conivaptan
- Cyclosporine
- Dantrolene
- Digoxin
- Domperidone
- Droperidol
- Epirubicin
- Eplerenone
- Eprosartan
- Everolimus
- Fosnetupitant
- Irbesartan
- Lacosamide
- Lithium
- Losartan
- Mercaptopurine
- Netupitant
- Olmesartan Medoxomil
- Piperaquine
- Potassium
- Rifampin
- Ritonavir
- Simvastatin
- Sirolimus
- Spironolactone
- Tacrolimus
- Tegafur
- Telaprevir
- Telmisartan
- Triamterene
- Trimethoprim
- Valsartan
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.
- Azosemide
- Bromfenac
- Bufexamac
- Bumetanide
- Bupivacaine
- Bupivacaine Liposome
- Capsaicin
- Celecoxib
- Choline Salicylate
- Clonixin
- Dexibuprofen
- Dexketoprofen
- Diclofenac
- Diflunisal
- Dipyrone
- Droxicam
- Ethacrynic Acid
- Etodolac
- Etofenamate
- Etoricoxib
- Felbinac
- Fenoprofen
- Fepradinol
- Feprazone
- Floctafenine
- Flufenamic Acid
- Flurbiprofen
- Furosemide
- Gold Sodium Thiomalate
- Ibuprofen
- Indinavir
- Indomethacin
- Ketoprofen
- Ketorolac
- Lornoxicam
- Loxoprofen
- Lumiracoxib
- Meclofenamate
- Mefenamic Acid
- Meloxicam
- Morniflumate
- Nabumetone
- Naproxen
- Nepafenac
- Nesiritide
- Niflumic Acid
- Nimesulide
- Nimesulide Beta Cyclodextrin
- Oxaprozin
- Oxyphenbutazone
- Parecoxib
- Phenylbutazone
- Piketoprofen
- Piretanide
- Piroxicam
- Proglumetacin
- Propionic Acid
- Propyphenazone
- Proquazone
- Rifapentine
- Rofecoxib
- Salicylic Acid
- Salsalate
- Sodium Salicylate
- Sulindac
- Tenoxicam
- Tiaprofenic Acid
- Tolfenamic Acid
- Tolmetin
- Torsemide
- Valdecoxib
How much does Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) cost?
Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) 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 Lotrel (amlodipine / benazepril) will not be safe for you to take.
- Taking at the same time as aliskiren (Tekturna) in people with diabetes (high blood sugar)
- History of angioedema
- Taking at the same time or within 36 hours of neprilysin inhibitors, such as Entresto (sacubitril / valsartan)
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