What is a Generic Drug?
A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Lotensin (Benazepril HCl)
Prescription Required
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Related Products & Conditions
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Product Details
Description
Lotensin is a drug used to treat hypertension, the medical term for high blood pressure. High blood pressure is commonly called ";the silent killer" because it can go undetected for many years and is a leading cause of heart disease worldwide.
When the blood pressure is too high, too much force is acting on the blood vessels' walls. The excess force causes small tears in blood vessel walls and organ damage. A person with high blood pressure for a long period has a much greater risk of heart attack and stroke.
Fact Table
Formula
C24H28N2O5
License
US FDA
Bioavailability
37%
Legal status
Rx-Only
Chemical Name
Benazepril
Elimination half-life
10-11 hours
Dosage (Strength)
5mg, 10mg, 20mg, 40mg
Pregnancy
Consult Doctor
Brands
Lotensin
Protein binding
96.7%
PubChem CID
5362124
MedlinePlus
a692011
ChEBI
3011
ATC code
C09AA07
DrugBank
DB00542
KEGG
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Routes of administration
Oral
Directions
Take Lotensin exactly as instructed by your doctor. The normal dosage is 10-40 mg by mouth once daily. The dose may be divided twice daily.
Ingredients
The active ingredient in Lotensin is benazepril.
Interactions
Tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following before starting Lotensin:
- Bromperidol
- Grass Pollen Allergen Extract
- Sacubitril
- Aliskiren
- Amifostine
- Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers
- Lanthanum
- Lithium
- Obinutuzumab
- Sodium Phosphates
- Urapidil
If you are taking these medications, you may need to switch to an alternative before starting Lotensin.Cautions
Tell your doctor if you have a history of kidney or liver disease.
Stop taking Lotensin if you develop a sudden, unexplained dry cough. You may need to be switched to another medication.
Side Effects
Common adverse reactions to this drug include
- Agranulocytosis
- Alopecia
- Angioedema
- Anxiety
- Arthralgia
- Arthritis
- Asthenia
- Asthma
- Bronchitis
- Cholestatic Hepatitis
- Constipation
- Cough
- Decreased Libido
- Diaphoresis
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Dyspnea
- ECG Changes
- Eosinophilia
- Fatigue
- Flushing
- Gastritis
- Headache
- Hemolytic Anemia
- Hypertonia
- Hyponatremia
- Hypotension
- Impotence
- Increased Liver Enzymes
- Increased Serum Bilirubin
- Increased Serum Glucose
- Increased Uric Acid
- Infection
- Insomnia
- Melena
- Myalgia
- Nausea
- Nervousness
- Orthostatic Dizziness
- Pancreatitis
- Paresthesia
- Pemphigus
- Proteinuria
- Psoriasis
- Sinusitis
- Skin Photosensitivity
- Stevens-Johnson Syndrome
- Thrombocytopenia
- Urinary Frequency
- Urinary Tract Infection
- Vomiting
References
Lotensin [package insert]. East Hanover, NJ: Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp; 2009.
Frequently Asked Questions about Lotensin (Benazepril HCl)
What is Lotensin used for?
Lotensin is primarily used to treat high blood pressure. It can also be used for heart failure and diabetic kidney disease.
How does Lotensin work?
Lotensin, containing the active ingredient benazepril, works by relaxing the muscles in blood vessels, which in turn lowers blood pressure.
What are the common side effects of Lotensin?
Common side effects include feeling tired and dizziness.
How should Lotensin be taken?
Lotensin is taken orally, usually once or twice daily depending on your prescription.
What are the available dosages for Lotensin?
Lotensin is available in tablets containing 10 mg, 20 mg, and 40 mg of benazepril hydrochloride.
Can Lotensin be taken with other medications?
Yes, Lotensin can be prescribed alone or in combination with other medications like hydrochlorothiazide for treating high blood pressure.
What are some off-label uses for Lotensin?
Off-label uses for Lotensin include treatment for heart failure or diabetic neuropathy.
Is there a generic version of Lotensin?
Yes, the generic version of Lotensin is known as Benazepril HCl. You can buy it for cheap online at Canada Pharmacy
Can Lotensin be taken while pregnant?
Pregnant people should not take Lotensin. If you do become pregnant while taking it, you should talk to your doctor as soon as possible since the medication can pass into the baby's milk.
Are there alternatives to Lotensin?
Yes, alternatives like Zestril and Vasotec are available. You can get them from online pharmacies like Canada Pharmacy, and it's advisable to discuss with your doctor to determine the most suitable option.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.Product Code : 1617
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