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Lotensin HCT

Generic name: hydrochlorothiazide and benazeprilHYE-droe-KLOR-oh-THY-a-zide-and-ben-AZ-e-pril ]
Drug class: ACE inhibitors with thiazides

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Jan 22, 2024. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Lotensin HCT?

Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic (water pill) and benazepril is an ACE inhibitor (ACE stands for angiotensin converting enzyme).

Lotensin HCT is a combination medicine used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure).

Lotensin HCT may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Lotensin HCT side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction (hives, severe stomach pain, difficult breathing, swelling in your face or throat) or a severe skin reaction (fever, sore throat, burning in your eyes, skin pain, red or purple skin rash that spreads and causes blistering and peeling).

You may be more likely to have an allergic reaction if you are African-American.

Lotensin HCT may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have:

Common side effects of Lotensin HCT may include:

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Do not use if you are pregnant. If you become pregnant, stop taking Lotensin HCT and tell your doctor right away.

You should not use this medicine if you are unable to urinate, if you have ever had angioedema, or if you are allergic to sulfa drugs or any ACE inhibitor. Do not take Lotensin HCT within 36 hours before or after taking medicine that contains sacubitril (such as Entresto).

If you have diabetes, do not use Lotensin HCT together with any medication that contains aliskiren (a blood pressure medicine).

Before taking this medicine

You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to hydrochlorothiazide or benazepril, or if:

Do not take Lotensin HCT within 36 hours before or after taking medicine that contains sacubitril (such as Entresto).

If you have diabetes, do not use Lotensin HCT together with any medication that contains aliskiren (a blood pressure medicine).

You may also need to avoid taking Lotensin HCT with aliskiren if you have kidney disease.

Tell your doctor if you have ever had:

Do not use if you are pregnant. If you become pregnant, stop taking this medicine and tell your doctor right away. Benazepril can cause injury or death to the unborn baby if you take the medicine during your second or third trimester.

You should not breastfeed while you are using this medicine.

How should I take Lotensin HCT?

Follow all directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. Use the medicine exactly as directed.

Call your doctor if you have ongoing vomiting or diarrhea, or if you are sweating more than usual. You can easily become dehydrated while taking Lotensin HCT. This can lead to very low blood pressure, electrolyte disorders, or kidney failure.

Your blood pressure will need to be checked often. Your kidney function may also need to be checked. Your blood and urine may also be tested if you have been vomiting or are dehydrated.

If you need surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using Lotensin HCT.

Keep using Lotensin HCT as directed, even if you feel well. High blood pressure often has no symptoms. You may need to use blood pressure medication for the rest of your life.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep the tablets in their original container, along with the packet or canister of moisture-absorbing preservative.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the medicine as soon as you can, but skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next dose. Do not take two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Overdose symptoms may include increased thirst, feeling light-headed, or fainting.

What should I avoid while taking Lotensin HCT?

Do not use potassium supplements or salt substitutes, unless your doctor has told you to.

Avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated during exercise, in hot weather, or by not drinking enough fluids. Follow your doctor's instructions about the type and amount of liquids you should drink.

Avoid getting up too fast from a sitting or lying position, or you may feel dizzy.

Drinking alcohol may increase certain side effects of Lotensin HCT.

Hydrochlorothiazide may increase your risk of skin cancer. Avoid sunlight or tanning beds. Wear protective clothing and use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) when you are outdoors. Your doctor may want you to have skin examinations on a regular basis.

What other drugs will affect Lotensin HCT?

Tell your doctor about all your current medicines. Many drugs can affect Lotensin HCT, especially:

This list is not complete and many other drugs may affect Lotensin HCT. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.