Warnings and Precautions With Benazepril

There are a few warnings and precautions with benazepril to be aware of. These include a link between benazepril and decreased kidney function, as well as an increased risk of infections in people taking this drug. People who should not take benazepril include those with a history of hereditary or idiopathic angioedema, or of angioedema related to previous treatment with an ACE inhibitor. As a final precaution, do not drive, operate machinery, or perform other tasks that require alertness until you know how benazepril affects you.

Benazepril HCl

Benazepril: What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?

You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking

benazepril hydrochloride (Lotensin^®) if you have:

Heart disease, including congestive heart failure, aortic stenosis, or hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Liver disease
Kidney disease or kidney failure
Diabetes
Scleroderma
Systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus or SLE)
A personal or family history of angioedema, which is swelling under the skin
Any allergies, including allergies to ACE inhibitors, foods, dyes, or preservatives.

Also, let your healthcare provider know if you:

Are pregnant or trying to become pregnant (see Lotensin and Pregnancy)
Are breastfeeding
Are on dialysis
Will be undergoing surgery or anesthesia.

Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you are currently taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

(Warnings and Precautions With Benazepril Continued: Page 2)