Products
Benazepril was commercially available as film-coated tablets (Cibacen, off label). It was also available as a fixed-dose combination with hydrochlorothiazide (Cibadrex, off label). Benazepril was approved in many countries beginning in 1990.
Structure and properties
Benazepril (C24H28N2O5, Mr = 424.5 g/mol) is present in drugs as benazepril hydrochloride, a white crystalline powder that is soluble in water. The peptidomimetic is a prodrug and is hydrolyzed in the body to the active ingredient benazeprilate.
Effects
Benazepril (ATC C09AA07) has antihypertensive properties and unloads the heart (preload and afterload). The effects are due to inhibition of the formation of angiotensin II from angiotensin I by inhibition of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE). Benazepril thus abolishes the effects of antiogensin II.
Indications
For the treatment of hypertension and as an adjunctive treatment for heart failure. As a veterinary drug, benazepril is used to treat heart failure in dogs and chronic renal failure in cats.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The drug is taken once or twice daily, regardless of meals.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Previous angioedema while taking ACE inhibitors or sartans.
- Pregnancy
- Concurrent use of aliskiren in patients with diabetes mellitus or impaired renal function.
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Drug-drug interactions have been observed with diuretics, lithium, indomethacin, antidiabetics, and gold, among others. Potassium supplements and potassium-sparing diuretics may increase the risk for hyperkalemia.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include cough, respiratory infections, rash, headache, dizziness, fatigue, orthostatic discomfort, palpable heartbeats, urinary urgency, and indigestion. Other possible side effects include hypersensitivity reactions, angioedema, and hyperkalemia.