PRODUCT
INFO
Benazepril, also known
as Fortekor and Lotensen, is classified as an inhibitor to the
angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE).
WHAT THIS PRODUCT CURESBenazepril is used to treat failures of the heart, elevated blood pressure, and inadequate protein synthesis excreted by the kidneys.
PET SYMPTOMS
The heart is the power house which keeps the body working. As the heart relaxes and contract it sends blood to every organ of the body, supplying life. All vertebrae containing organisms are unable to survive without the use of the heart. In the condition known as congestive heart failure, the heart muscle fails to function properly. This condition can cause serious complications and can even cause sudden death in serious cases. A pet with a congestive heart failure will present signs and symptoms which link them to this disease. Symptoms of heart failure include; distension of the abdomen, liver enlargement, breathing difficulties, lethargy, weakness, and collapse. Heart failure alone can be caused by a number of underlying conditions, however in congestive heart failure; its underlying cause is due to a structural abnormality. Tears in the heart’s wall, congestive shunts, problems with valves, and a number of other complications can lead to inadequate blood flow to the body.
The kidney
is a viable organ within every mammal’s body. The
kidneys are a paired organ with the left kidney residing slightly
lower in the abdomen than the right. The kidneys have the morphology
similar to the appearance of a chili bean with a red/ brown
coloration. The kidneys are the body’s natural filtration system,
and amino acid producing organ. Kidneys which do not function
properly, however, can cause a number of complications. A
dog or cat affected by this condition will display a number of
symptoms and signs of contraction. The signs to look for include;
Polyuria, polydipsia, diarrhea, vomiting, foul breath, decreased hair
coat luster, anorexia, weight loss, depression, and in some cases the
dog may go to a coma state.
PET AILMENTS
A
dog or cat affected by this condition will display a number of
symptoms and signs of contraction. The signs to look for include;
Polyuria, polydipsia, diarrhea, vomiting, foul breath, decreased hair
coat luster, anorexia, weight loss, depression, and in some cases the
dog may go to a coma state. Other aliments include; distension
of the abdomen, liver enlargement, breathing difficulties, lethargy,
weakness, and collapse.
PETS
WITH ALIMENTS
RELATIVE INFO ON BREED MOST ASSOCIATED WITH THIS AILMENTDogs and cats can develop heart, kidney, and blood pressure problems despite their breed. Cats, however, do tend to have more kidney synthesis problems than dogs.
QUESTIONS FOR MY VET
1.What should I do if my pet has adverse effects from product?
- Discontinue use and contact your veterinarian promptly.
2. What adverse side effects should I be aware of while administering this product?
- Stomach ulcerations, fainting, elevated bodily temperature, dizziness, elevated blood pressure, lethargy, diarrhea, vomiting, and an allergic reaction.
3. Who should not take Benazepril?
- Pets which are currently taking vasodilators or diuretics should consult a veterinarian before taking this drug as calcium increases have been reported. Potassium supplements or diuretics containing potassium may increase the chances of Hyperkalemia. Pain relievers and other forms of NSAIDs should also be avoided as these medications may react with Benazepril leading to kidney failure.
4. Can my pet take this medication with food?
- Pets should be administered Benazepril on an empty stomach in order for the medication to work to its highest potential. Benazepril is absorbed through the stomach wall and the presence of food will slightly neutralize the chemical strength of the drug.
5. What happens if I forget a dose?
- If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose, in which case leave out the missed dose. Do not take two doses together to make up for a forgotten dose.
6. How do I know I have overdosed my pet?
- Symptoms of overdose may include excitement or seizure, drowsiness, coma, respiratory depression and death. Contact your veterinarian or veterinary emergency room.
How it Works Manufactured in its active form by the liver, Benazepril’s main function is to reduce blood pressure throughout the body. It carries out this function by inhibiting the angiotensin-converting enzyme, which constricts the vessels within the heart. By blocking this enzyme the work load of the heart is greatly decreased as well as the workload of the kidneys. Benazepril promotes vasodilatation of the renal veins which allows blood to pass though the kidneys with ease and decreased the proliferation of masangial cells, providing relief for kidney failure patients.
DIRECTIONS FOR USE:Pets do not enjoy taking pills therefore administration attempts may take practice. This product maybe given within a food or pill pocket to ease the administration of said pill. Pet must take full tablet for full effect. Partially swallowed, spit up, or chewed up pills should be noted.
- Benazepril is administered by mouth.
- Open the pet’s mouth by placed thumb and index finger at the hinges of the jaw, gently squeeze.
- Place the pill into the pet’s mouth past the tongue, hold the mouth closed to ensure swallow.
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION:
|
Species |
Dosage
|
|
Dog |
0.1-0.2mg/lb.
1 to 2 times daily |
|
Cat |
0.1-0.45mg/lb.
1 time daily |
Ingredients
|
|
|
Active
Ingredients |
Amount |
|
Benazepril
hydrochloride, USP |
5
mg |
Product Cautions
Keep
out of reach from children.
Not
intended to be used in pregnant or lactating females.
Do
not use expired or moisture contacted medication.
PET:
Pets may develop adverse side effects including stomach ulcerations,
fainting, elevated bodily temperature, dizziness, elevated blood
pressure, lethargy, diarrhea, vomiting, and an allergic reaction.
HUMANS:
Avoid contact with eyes. Wash hands thoroughly after handling
medication.
Storage
and disposal
Storage:
Store product at room
temperature away from light and moisture.
Disposal: Empty containers should be disposed of as directed and never re-used. Recycling or garbage disposal is viable as directed upon product label. Consult a medical waste agency for directions to depose of remaining drug and container. Contact 1-800-CLEANUP for additional information.
BRAND
VS GENERIC COMPARISON
Lotensin
(Novartis), is the brand name for Benazepril. Both generic and brand
name formulas treat heart and blood pressure conditions.