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Lotrel |
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What is Lotrel and why is it prescribed? Lotrel is used in the treatment of high blood pressure. It is a combination medicine that is used when treatment with a single drug has not been successful or has caused side effects. One component, amlodipine, is a calcium channel blocker. It eases the workload of the heart by slowing down the passage of nerve impulses and hence the contractions of the heart muscle. This improves blood flow through the heart and throughout the body and reduces blood pressure. The other component, benazepril, is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. It works by preventing the transformation of a hormone called angiotensin I into a more potent substance that increases salt and water retention in your body. You must take Lotrel regularly for it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may take 1 to 2 weeks for the full effect of Lotrel to be seen. Lotrel does not cure high blood pressure but it keeps it under control. How should you take Lotrel? Follow your doctors directions for taking Lotrel. Try to take your medication at the same time each day, such as before or after breakfast, so that it is easier to remember. If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once. Store Lotrel at room temperature. Store away from moisture and light; avoid excessive heat. Are there any Lotrel side effects? Lotrel side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. If you develop swelling of your face, around the lips, tongue, or throat; swelling of arms and legs; or difficulty swallowing, you should contact your doctor immediately. You may need emergency treatment. Be especially wary if you're an African American: Your chances of this type of reaction are higher. Severe allergic reactions are also more likely if you are being given bee or wasp venom to guard against future reactions to stings. More common Lotrel side effects may include cough. Less common Lotrel side effects may include abdominal pain, anxiety, back pain, bloating and gas, constipation, cramps, decreased sex drive, diarrhea, dizziness, dry mouth, excessive urination, fluid retention and swelling, flushing, headache, hot flashes, impotence, insomnia, muscle and bone pain, muscle cramps, nausea, nervousness, rash, skin disorders, sore throat, tremor, and weakness and fatigue. Rare Lotrel side effects may include chest pain, hair loss, heart attack, gout, nerve pain, ringing in the ears, and upper respiratory infection. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Lotrel? If Lotrel is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Lotrel with Lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid), Potassium supplements (Slow-K), Potassium-sparing diuretics (such as Aldactazide, Moduretic, and Maxzide), or Diuretics (such as Diuril, Lasix, HydroDIURIL). Are there any special warnings about Lotrel? Your kidney function should be assessed when you start taking Lotrel, then monitored for the first few weeks. If you have poor kidney function, there is a slight chance that Lotrel may reduce your supply of infection-fighting white blood cells. The risk of this problem rises if you also have a disease such as lupus. If you're on kidney dialysis, your chances of an allergic reaction to the drug are increased. Lotrel can cause low blood pressure, especially if you are taking high doses of diuretics. You may feel light-headed or faint, especially during the first few days of therapy. If these symptoms occur, contact your doctor. Your dosage may need to be adjusted or discontinued. If you have congestive heart failure, use this drug with caution. If you have kidney disease or severe liver disease, diabetes, lupus erythematosus, or scleroderma, use Lotrel with caution. Excessive sweating, severe diarrhea, or vomiting could make you lose too much water, causing a severe drop in blood pressure. If you notice a yellow coloring to your skin or the whites of your eyes, stop taking the drug and notify your doctor immediately. You could be developing liver problems. If you develop a persistent, dry cough, tell your doctor. It may be due to the medication and, if so, will disappear if you stop taking Lotrel. In a medical emergency and before you have surgery, notify your doctor or dentist that you are taking Lotrel. |
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