The combination of amlodipine and benazepril is used for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure). Amlodipine works to widen blood vessels and encourage blood flow, while benazepril works to block enzymes that narrow blood vessels. This dual action works to lower overall blood pressure.

The combination of amlodipine and benazepril is available as a generic drug as well as the brand name Lotrel.

A combination medication containing both amlodipine and benazepril is prescribed to treat high blood pressure.

High blood pressure is a dangerous – potentially fatal – condition in which the heart is met with too much resistance from narrowed blood vessels as it tries to pump blood and oxygen around your body. When not treated, high blood pressure can lead to an array of serious health issues including heart attack, heart failure, stroke, and many more complications. Nearly ½ of Americans have high blood pressure, and heart disease is the leading cause of death of people in the United States.

It is important to note that this combination medication does not cure high blood pressure. Instead, it acts in conjunction with other forms of treatment and lifestyle changes to get blood pressure under control.

This combination medication contains two drugs: amlodipine and benazepril. Amlodipine is classified as a calcium channel blocker, a common form of blood pressure medication. Like other calcium channel blockers, amlodipine helps dilate arteries. Narrowed blood vessels make it more difficult for blood to be pumped through the body, leading to an increase in blood pressure.

By the contraction of blood vessels, amlodipine keeps them relaxed and open which reduces blood pressure and minimizes the risk of cardiac conditions such as heart attack, heart failure, and stroke.

Benazepril is classified as an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. These drugs work by blocking the action of a natural substance in the body that causes blood vessels in the kidneys to tighten and constrict blood flow. Benazepril relaxes and dilates your blood vessels, which lowers your blood pressure.

The combination of amlodipine and benazepril has been shown to cause adverse side effects in some patients. If these reactions become severe or do not go away after a day or two, seek medical attention right away.

Mild side effects reported from amlodipine and benazepril use include:

• Cough
  
• Headache
  
• Flushing (feeling of warmth)
  
• Dizziness
  
• Sleepiness
  
  

More serious side effects include:

• Swelling (specifically in arms, hands, feet and legs)
  
• Difficulty breathing
  
• Hives
  
• Fainting
  
• Skin rash
  
• Fever
  
• Yellowing of skin or eyes
  
  

If you experience any of these side effects, seek medical attention immediately. These are symptoms of a possibly serious adverse reaction to this medication and require treatment right away.

As with all medication, inform your doctor of any medical conditions you are currently managing. Tell them about any and all medication, prescription drugs, and supplements you are taking before starting treatment with amlodipine and benazepril. This combination medication can interact with substances in the body, causing potentially serious adverse reactions. Specifically, you should mention if you are taking other forms of blood pressure medication, diuretics, or potassium supplements.

Tell your doctor if you have had diabetes, heart failure, lupus, or heart, kidney or liver disease.

In addition, let your doctor know if you are planning to become pregnant, are pregnant, or are currently breastfeeding before starting treatment with this medication.

The combination of amlodipine and benazepril is commonly supplied as an oral tablet. The specific dosage of the medication depends on the patient’s condition. Take this medication exactly as ordered. Do not increase or discontinue the dosage without consulting with your health care provider first.

Keep all medication bottles out of reach of small children, and at room temperature. Avoid exposing the medication to excess heat or moisture.

If you begin to notice any adverse side effects like those listed above, notify your health care provider immediately.

Amlodipine and benazepril combination medication is currently only available via prescription. This means that a licensed health care provider must authorize the use of this medication.

If you are looking for a prescription, providers on Sesame can write a prescription–or refill an existing one–during a virtual or in-person visit. Note that not all drugs can be prescribed via an online video appointment. In some cases, an in-person doctor visit is required for a prescription.

Depending on the medication, you can arrange for same-day pickup at your pharmacy. Book an appointment with a provider on Sesame today to discuss whether or not amlodipine and benazepril is right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your health care provider. Sesame cannot guarantee that you will be provided a prescription after a video or in-person appointment. Providers on Sesame are unable to prescribe controlled substances. For more information about controlled substances, check out the Drug Enforcement Agency’s scheduling guidelines here.

Good news! If deemed clinically appropriate, providers on Sesame can write a prescription for amlodipine and benazepril to be picked up near you – often within the same day! Simply talk to a clinician and get your online doctor prescription or refill ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.