Amlodipine + Benazepril
Find more information about this combination medication at the webpages for benazepril and amlodipine
Hypertension , Variant Angina Pectoris ... show more
.svg)
Drug Status
Government Approvals
None
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitor and Calcium Channel Blocker and Dihydropyridine Calcium Channel Blocker
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Summary
Amlodipine and benazepril are used to treat high blood pressure, which is also known as hypertension. Amlodipine is also used for chest pain, which refers to angina, and certain heart diseases. Benazepril helps improve survival after a heart attack and treats heart failure. Together, they help manage cardiovascular conditions by lowering blood pressure and improving heart health.
Amlodipine works by blocking calcium channels, which are pathways in blood vessels, helping them relax and widen, thus lowering blood pressure. Benazepril inhibits an enzyme called ACE, which reduces a hormone that narrows blood vessels, also lowering blood pressure. Together, they relax blood vessels and reduce heart workload, improving blood flow and reducing heart-related risks.
Amlodipine is usually taken as a pill, with doses ranging from 5 to 10 mg once daily. Benazepril is also taken orally, with doses between 10 to 40 mg per day, either as a single dose or split into two. The combination dosage is tailored to individual needs, and it's important to follow healthcare provider instructions.
Common side effects of amlodipine include swelling of ankles or feet, dizziness, and flushing, which is a warm, red feeling in the face. Benazepril may cause a dry cough, dizziness, and headache. Both can lead to low blood pressure, causing fainting or lightheadedness. Serious effects are rare but include allergic reactions and kidney issues.
Amlodipine should be used cautiously in severe heart conditions due to low blood pressure risk. Benazepril is not recommended during pregnancy, especially in later stages, due to fetal harm risk. Both require caution in kidney problems. Avoid sudden discontinuation to prevent blood pressure spikes. Inform healthcare providers about all medications to avoid interactions.
Indications and Purpose
How does combination of Amlodipine and Benazepril work?
Amlodipine and benazepril work together to lower blood pressure. Amlodipine, a calcium channel blocker, relaxes blood vessels by inhibiting the influx of calcium ions into vascular smooth muscle and cardiac muscle, reducing the heart's workload. Benazepril, an ACE inhibitor, decreases the production of angiotensin II, a chemical that causes blood vessels to tighten, thus allowing blood to flow more easily. Together, they effectively reduce blood pressure and improve blood flow.
How effective is combination of Amlodipine and Benazepril?
Clinical trials have demonstrated that the combination of amlodipine and benazepril effectively lowers blood pressure in patients not adequately controlled on monotherapy. Amlodipine, as a calcium channel blocker, and benazepril, as an ACE inhibitor, work synergistically to enhance antihypertensive effects. Studies show that the combination therapy provides a greater reduction in blood pressure compared to either drug alone, particularly in nonblack patients, and helps reduce amlodipine-induced edema.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of combination of Amlodipine and Benazepril?
The usual adult daily dose for the combination of amlodipine and benazepril starts at 2.5 mg of amlodipine and 10 mg of benazepril, taken orally once a day. The dose can be adjusted based on the patient's response, with a maximum dose of 10 mg of amlodipine and 40 mg of benazepril per day. Amlodipine helps by relaxing blood vessels, while benazepril reduces chemicals that tighten blood vessels, both contributing to lowering blood pressure.
How does one take combination of Amlodipine and Benazepril?
Amlodipine and benazepril should be taken once daily, at the same time each day, with or without food. Patients are advised to follow any dietary instructions provided by their doctor, such as a low-salt or low-sodium diet, to enhance the medication's effectiveness. It's important to avoid using salt substitutes containing potassium without consulting a healthcare provider, as this can affect potassium levels in the body.
For how long is combination of Amlodipine and Benazepril taken?
Amlodipine and benazepril are typically used as a long-term treatment for high blood pressure. While they help control blood pressure, they do not cure it, so patients are usually advised to continue taking the medication even if they feel well. The duration of use is often indefinite, as maintaining controlled blood pressure is crucial for preventing complications such as heart disease and stroke.
How long does it take for combination of Amlodipine and Benazepril to work?
Amlodipine and benazepril combination medicine typically starts working within 2 weeks to achieve its full antihypertensive effect. Amlodipine, a calcium channel blocker, works by relaxing blood vessels, which helps to lower blood pressure. Benazepril, an ACE inhibitor, decreases certain chemicals that tighten blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more smoothly. Both medicines work together to effectively reduce blood pressure, but the full effect may take a couple of weeks to be noticeable.
Warnings and Precautions
Are there harms and risks from taking combination of Amlodipine and Benazepril?
Common side effects of amlodipine and benazepril include cough, headache, dizziness, and swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs. Serious adverse effects can include swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, or eyes, difficulty swallowing or breathing, fainting, severe skin rash, and yellowing of the skin or eyes. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. The combination of these medications can also lead to more frequent or severe chest pain in some individuals.
Can I take combination of Amlodipine and Benazepril with other prescription drugs?
Significant drug interactions with amlodipine and benazepril include those with aliskiren, especially in patients with diabetes, as it can increase the risk of kidney problems, low blood pressure, and high potassium levels. Caution is also advised when used with lithium, as it can increase lithium levels and toxicity. Additionally, coadministration with simvastatin should be limited to 20 mg daily due to increased risk of side effects. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications they are taking to avoid adverse interactions.
Can I take combination of Amlodipine and Benazepril if I am pregnant?
Amlodipine and benazepril are not safe for use during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters, due to the risk of fetal harm. These medications can affect fetal renal function and lead to complications such as oligohydramnios, lung hypoplasia, and skeletal deformations. If pregnancy is detected, the medication should be discontinued immediately. Women of childbearing age should discuss alternative treatments with their healthcare provider if they plan to become pregnant.
Can I take combination of Amlodipine and Benazepril while breastfeeding?
Amlodipine and benazepril are present in human milk, but the amounts are minimal. Amlodipine has been observed in breast milk at low levels, and no adverse effects on breastfed infants have been reported. Benazepril and its active metabolite, benazeprilat, are also excreted in breast milk in small amounts. While no significant effects on milk production or the breastfed infant have been noted, it's important for breastfeeding mothers to discuss the risks and benefits with their healthcare provider.
Who should avoid taking combination of Amlodipine and Benazepril?
Amlodipine and benazepril should not be used during pregnancy due to the risk of fetal harm. Patients with a history of angioedema or those allergic to ACE inhibitors or calcium channel blockers should avoid this medication. It's contraindicated with aliskiren in diabetic patients. Caution is advised in patients with kidney or liver problems, and those undergoing surgery. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, kidney function, and potassium levels is essential to prevent complications.
