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Lotensin HCT |
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- Description - |
Lotensin HCT combines two types of blood pressure medication. Thefirst, benazepril hydrochloride, is an ACE (angiotensin-convertingenzyme) inhibitor. It works by preventing a chemical in your blood calledangiotensin I from converting into a more potent form (angiotensin II)that increases salt and water retention in the body and causes the bloodvessels to constrict--two actions that tend to increase blood pressure.
To aid in clearing excess water from the body, Lotensin HCT alsocontains hydrochlorothiazide, a diuretic that promotes production ofurine. Diuretics often wash too much potassium out of the body along withthe water. However, the ACE inhibitor part of Lotensin HCT tends to keeppotassium in the body, thereby canceling this unwanted effect.
Lotensin HCT is not used for the initial treatment of high bloodpressure. It is saved for later use, when a single blood pressuremedication is not sufficient for the job. In addition, some doctors areusing Lotensin HCT along with other drugs to treat congestive heartfailure.
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- Common Side Effects - |
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Dizziness,fatigue,headache |
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- Possible Interactions - |
Barbiturates such as phenobarbital
Cholestyramine (Questran)
Colestipol (Colestid)
Corticosteroids such as prednisone or ACTH
Diabetes medication such as insulin or Micronase
Digoxin (Lanoxin)
Diuretics such as HydroDIURIL and Lasix
Lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid)
Narcotics such as Percocet
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Naprosyn
Norepinephrine (Levophed)
Other high blood pressure medications
Potassium-sparing diuretics such as Aldactone, Dyazide, andModuretic
Potassium supplements such as Slow-K and K-Dur
Salt substitutes containing potassium
Alcohol may increase the effect of Lotensin HCT, and could causedizziness or fainting. Check with your doctor before drinking alcoholicbeverages.
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- Manufacturer - |
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Novartis Pharmaceuticals |
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One Health PLaza Building 415 Room1014C |
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East Hanover, NJ 07936 |
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USA |
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