How Does Benazepril-Hydrochlorothiazide Work?
Benazepril-hydrochlorothiazide is a combination of two medicines --
Lotensin® and
hydrochlorothiazide. 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.
Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic, which is commonly referred to as a "water pill." It works by increasing the amounts of salt and water the kidneys remove from the blood. This extra salt and water is passed out through the urine. By increasing the amount of water removed from the blood, hydrochlorothiazide causes a decrease in blood volume.
Because of the effects of both Lotensin and hydrochlorothiazide,
benazepril-hydrochlorothiazide can
lower blood pressure. Because of its combined effects, benazepril-hydrochlorothiazide causes a greater drop in
blood pressure than when either medicine is used alone.
Is Benazepril-Hydrochlorothiazide Used in Children?
Benazepril-hydrochlorothiazide has not been approved for use in children.
Off-Label Benazepril-Hydrochlorothiazide Uses
On occasion, a healthcare provider may recommend benazepril-hydrochlorothiazide 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 of this drug.
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