How Does Benazepril-Amlodipine Work?
Benazepril-amlodipine is a combination of two medicines --
benazepril hydrochloride (sold under the brand
Lotensin® and in generic form as Benazepril Hydrochloride) and
amlodipine besylate (sold under the brand name
Norvasc®). Lotensin is part of a class of drugs called angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, or ACE inhibitors for short. Lotensin helps to block the angiotensin-converting enzyme, which is normally part of a reaction in the body that causes the blood vessels to narrow (constrict). By blocking this enzyme, Lotensin causes blood vessels to relax.
Norvasc is part of a class of drugs called
calcium channel blockers. Norvasc helps to slow down the rate at which
calcium moves into your blood vessel walls. This, in turn, helps to relax the vessels, causing a decrease in
blood pressure. It also makes it easier for the heart to pump blood.
Because of the effects of both Lotensin and Norvasc, benazepril-
amlodipine can
lower blood pressure. Because of its combined effects, benazepril-amlodipine causes a greater drop in blood pressure than when either medicine is used alone.
Is Benazepril-Amlodipine Used in Children?
Benazepril-amlodipine has not been approved for use in children.
Off-Label Benazepril-Amlodipine Uses
On occasion, a healthcare provider may recommend benazepril-amlodipine for treating a condition other than those listed above. This is called an "
off-label" use. At this time, there are no universally accepted off-label uses for benazepril-amlodipine.
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