Lotrel  Information
Lotrel (Amlodipine & Benazapril) is used for treating high blood pressure. It is a combination of 2 blood pressure medicines, an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor and a calcium channel blocker. It works by helping your blood vessels relax (dilate) and lower blood pressure. Avoid using Lotrel (Amlodipine & Benazapril) if you are allergic to any ingredient in Lotrel (Amlodipine & Benazapril) or similar medicines (eg, any other ACE inhibitor) or you are using iron dextran by injection or if you are in your second or third trimester of pregnancy. Before you start taking Lotrel (Amlodipine & Benazapril) some medical conditions as well as medicines may interact with it. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have any medical conditions or are taking any other medication. Use Lotrel (Amlodipine & Benazapril) as directed by your doctor. Check the label on the medicine for exact dosing instructions. Take Lotrel (Amlodipine & Benazapril) by mouth with or without food. Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may increase the risk of side effects from Lotrel (Amlodipine & Benazapril). Talk with your doctor before including grapefruit or grapefruit juice in your diet. Do not take more than prescribed unless advised to do so by your doctor. If you miss a dose of Lotrel (Amlodipine & Benazapril), take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Lotrel  Side Effects
It is important to know that Lotrel (Amlodipine & Benazapril) may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting. These effects may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines, as well as with hot weather, fever and exercise. Sit up or stand slowly to prevent these effects. Use Lotrel (Amlodipine & Benazapril) with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it. Check with your doctor before you use a salt substitute or a product that has potassium in it. A persistent, unproductive cough may occur. Tell your doctor if this occurs. Recovery is rapid when the medicine is stopped. Patients who take medicine for high blood pressure often feel tired or run down for a few weeks after starting treatment. Be sure to take your medicine even if you may not feel "normal." Tell your doctor if you develop any new symptoms. Lab tests, including blood pressure, may be performed while you use Lotrel (Amlodipine & Benazapril). Avoid using Lotrel (Amlodipine & Benazapril) in children as safety and effectiveness in children have not been confirmed. Lotrel (Amlodipine & Benazapril) may cause fetal and newborn death if you take it while you are pregnant. If you think you may be pregnant, contact your doctor right away. Lotrel (Amlodipine & Benazapril) is found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Lotrel (Amlodipine & Benazapril) . Common possible side effects of Lotrel (Amlodipine & Benazapril) include; dizziness or lightheadedness when sitting or standing; headache; persistent, dry cough; swelling of the hands or feet. If you notice any of the following severe side effects occurring, see a doctor immediately: Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); chest pain; infection (fever, sore throat); irregular or slow heartbeat; yellowing of the skin or eyes.

The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.