|
Lotensin HCT description. Lotensin HCT belongs to the class of medicines called high blood pressure medicines (antihypertensives). It is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). High blood pressure adds to the workload of the heart and arteries. If it continues for a long time, the heart and arteries may not function properly. This can damage the blood vessels of the brain, heart, and kidneys, resulting in a stroke, heart failure, or kidney failure. High blood pressure may also increase the risk of heart attacks. These problems may be less likely to occur if blood pressure is controlled. The exact way in which benazepril, captopril, enalapril, lisinopril, moexipril, and quinapril work is not known. They block an enzyme in the body that is necessary to produce a substance that causes blood vessels to tighten. As a result, they relax blood vessels. This lowers blood pressure and increases the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart. Hydrochlorothiazide helps reduce the amount of salt and water in the body by acting on the kidneys to increase the flow of urine; this also helps to lower blood pressure. Lotensin HCT may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor. Why prescribed Lotensin HCT. The combination of benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide is used to treat high blood pressure. Benazepril is in a class of medications called angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It works by decreasing certain chemicals that tighten the blood vessels, so blood flows more smoothly. Hydrochlorothiazide is in a class of medications called diuretics ('water pills'). It works by causing the kidneys to get rid of unneeded water and salt from the body into the urine. How used Lotensin HCT. The combination of benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day. To help you remember to take benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide, take it around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide controls high blood pressure but does not cure it. Continue to take benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide even if you feel well. Do not stop taking benazepril and hydrochlorothiazide without talking to your doctor. Brand names: - Accuretic - Angiotensin-converting Enzyme - Capozide - Lotensin HCT - Prinzide - Uniretic - Vaseretic - Zestoretic |