Lotensin

The generic name for the drug Lotensin is Benazepril. On a general term, Lotensin is used to treat high blood pressure. There are times when Lotensin is used alone. There are also times when Lotensin is combined with other drugs that regulate high blood pressure. The physician determines whichever is more appropriate for each case.

But is Lotensin a beta blocker? The answer to this question is no. This is because Lotensin is an ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) inhibitor. Lotensin focuses on decreasing a certain chemical, which tightens the blood vessels. When this chemical is decreased, the blood vessels are able to relax. And when they are able to dilate and relax, blood pressure is significantly lowered.

But, as always, not all people are fit to take Lotensin pills. Thus, you should not take Lotensin if you are allergic to any of its components. Consult your physician to determine whether or not you are allergic to Lotensin.

If you have had an allergic reaction to other ACE inhibitors in the past, then you are most likely allergic to Lotensin as well. Be sure to determine whether or not you’re allergic to the drug before taking it.

If you are pregnant, or you suspect that you might be, then don’t take Lotensin. This is quite a strong drug, which can very well cause serious birth defects on an unborn baby. If you are also nursing, then you should not take Lotensin as well. There are no definitive results on whether Lotensin can be secreted through breast milk. But chances are, it can be. It would be better not to risk this at all. To be on the safe side, consult your physician regarding the matter.

Lotensin should not be taken by people who have a history of the following medical conditions: liver problems, diabetes, kidney problems, kidney transplants, lupus, bone marrow suppression, low blood pressure, low blood count, low blood sodium levels, and high blood potassium levels. If you are afflicted with any of these conditions, then it’s better for you not to take Lotensin at all. Your physician can recommend a more appropriate medication for you.

And there’s also the matter of the side effects of Lotensin. Just like any other drug, Lotensin has side effects that can be considered minor to some extent. These minor side effects include cough, headache, nausea, weakness or fatigue, and dizziness especially when standing up from a sitting or lying down position. Experiencing such does not necessarily mean that you have to stop your treatment. Just make sure to inform your physician about the occurrence of such symptoms. Because there can be times when these minor side effects would become too bothersome.

But Lotensin has its share of serious side effects as well. And should these occur, there might be a need to stop your Lotensin treatment. These serious side effects include allergic reactions of the severe kind, chest pains, chills, fever, flu-like symptoms, fainting, irregular heartbeat, sore throat, stomach pain, and yellowing of the eyes or skin. Should any of these serious side effects manifest, the best thing to do is to stop taking Lotensin and contact your physician right away.

Although this is a rare occurrence, there are still some times when Lotensin overdose happens. This is why it’s very important to keep track of your dosages. Keep some sort of Lotensin dosage schedule to get by. Symptoms that indicate Lotensin overdose include dizziness, weakness, nausea, and lightheadedness upon standing. If such symptoms are exhibited, it’s better to contact the local poison control center for medical assistance.

Also, if you have any questions regarding Lotensin, do not hesitate to contact your physician. It is always better to be well-informed about the medicines you take. And Lotensin is not just any drug that one can take whenever, wherever. So, do consult your physician, and do not assume anything about the drug. This is the safest thing anyone can ever do.