Benazepril

Why has my veterinarian prescribed this medicine?

Benazepril is used to treat heart failure in dogs and chronic kidney failure in cats. It dilates the arteries and veins thereby reducing blood pressure. High blood pressure makes the heart work harder. If this continues, the heart and arteries may get damaged and not function correctly. Benazepril reduces the blood pressure in the kidney and helps the kidney retain water, salts, and protein. This medication may be used for other conditions as prescribed by your veterinarian.

How does this medicine work?

Benazepril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor that blocks the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a potent vasocontrictor.

How do I give this medication?

- Give this medication to your pet as directed by your veterinarian. READ THE LABEL CAREFULLY.

- This medication may be given with or without food.

- Try to give this medication at about the same time(s) each day.

- DO NOT give the pet more medicine than directed and DO NOT give the medicine more often than directed.

- Try not to miss giving any doses.

- DO NOT discontinue the medication without first checking with your veterinarian. Contact your veterinarian in advance if your pet needs a repeat prescription.

What do I do if I miss giving a dose?

Give the dose as soon as possible. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose, and continue with the regular schedule. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

How do I store this medicine?

Keep this medicine out of reach of children. Store this medicine in a cool, dry place at room temperature. Store away from heat and direct sunlight. Do not store this medicine in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink or in damp places. The medicine may break down if exposed to heat or moisture.

Potential side effects

- Although a drug has potential side effects, it does not mean that there is necessarily a high risk of any of these occurring. Tell your veterinarian if your pet is intended for breeding or if you think your pet may be pregnant.

- Depending on other treatment given, your veterinarian may monitor your pet’s blood to check for potassium levels and kidney function. Contact your veterinarian if your pet is extremely tired or appears dizzy (uncoordinated).

- Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian.

Possible drug interactions

- Make sure to tell your veterinarian what other medication you are giving to your pet.

- Drugs may interact such that they can cause an increased or decreased effect or side effects. Care should be taken with concurrent use of diuretics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, hypotensives, and anaesthetics.

- Contact your veterinarian if your pet experiences any unusual reactions when different medications are given together.