Benazepril Tab

ACE inhibitor for chronic renal disease, systemic hypertension, and congestive heart failure in dogs and cats; proteinuria reduction. ACE inhibitor (benazepril HCl). Mechanism: competitively inhibits angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) → reduces angiotensin II formation → vasodilation, reduced aldosterone secretion, decreased sodium/water retention → reduced preload and afterload. Also reduces proteinuria in renal disease via reduced glomerular capillary pressure. Prodrug; hepatically converted to active benazeprilat. Key information Monitor renal function and electrolytes after initiation. Avoid in pregnant animals (fetotoxic). First-dose hypotension — start low. Do not use with potassium-sparing diuretics. Store at room temperature.

Oral tablets: Administer orally. May be given with food to improve compliance and reduce GI upset. Administer with food to reduce GI adverse effects. or without food. Tablets may be crushed and mixed into food. Administer at consistent times. Store at room temperature; protect from light. If a dose is missed Give the missed dose as soon as you remember. If the next dose is due within a few hours, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule. Never give a double dose.

Hypotension (especially with concurrent diuretics — monitor at initiation). Azotemia/renal dysfunction (reduce renal perfusion pressure — monitor renal values). Hyperkalemia. GI: vomiting, anorexia. Dry cough (ACE inhibitor — less common in animals than humans). Angioedema (rare).

For animals Monitor renal function and potassium at baseline and within 1–2 weeks of starting therapy. Avoid in patients with bilateral renal artery stenosis or severe hypotension. Avoid in pregnant animals. (embryotoxic). Concurrent diuretics: risk of severe hypotension — reduce diuretic dose or initiate at low ACE inhibitor dose. Avoid concurrent potassium-sparing diuretics (hyperkalemia). For people handling this medication Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Avoid contact with eyes; if contact occurs, flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. Keep out of reach of children. If accidental ingestion occurs, contact Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). ACE inhibitor — even a single tablet can lower blood pressure significantly. Store securely away from children. Keep out of reach of children. Pregnant women and women of childbearing age should avoid contact. (ACE inhibitors are contraindicated in pregnancy).

Contact your veterinarian. ACE inhibitor overdose causes severe low blood pressure and kidney effects.