Benazepril
Veterinary Compounding Medication – Customized for Dogs and Cats
Quick Reference
Basic Information
Benazepril HCl is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor widely used in veterinary medicine for its vasodilatory and cardioprotective properties. It works by blocking the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II — a potent vasoconstrictor — thereby reducing blood pressure, improving circulation, and decreasing the workload on the heart.
Veterinary Medicine Uses
Congestive Heart Failure (CHF): Reduces cardiac stress and helps alleviate symptoms, improving quality of life in affected dogs and cats.
Systemic Hypertension: Effectively lowers high blood pressure to prevent damage to the kidneys, eyes, and heart.
Chronic Renal Failure: Slows the progression of renal disease by reducing glomerular hypertension and enhancing kidney perfusion.
Protein-Losing Nephropathies: Helps manage protein loss through urine by improving glomerular integrity and reducing strain on the kidneys.
Side Effects
Common: Hypotension, weakness, lethargy, or gastrointestinal upset (anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea).
Less Common: Hyperkalemia and reversible mild-to-moderate renal dysfunction. These effects are typically dose-related and resolve with adjustment or discontinuation.
Precautions
Regular monitoring of arterial blood pressure, renal function, and serum electrolytes is essential when administering Benazepril. Contraindicated in animals with hypotension, hypovolemia, hyponatremia, or acute renal failure. Avoid use during pregnancy and lactation due to potential risks to fetal and neonatal health.
Drug Interactions
Benazepril may interact with diuretics and vasodilators, potentially leading to increased hypotension or hyperkalemia. Concurrent use with NSAIDs increases the risk of renal dysfunction. Caution is also advised when used with insulin or lithium, as benazepril may alter their effects and blood levels.
Overdose Management
Overdose can result in severe hypotension, weakness, or collapse. Immediate veterinary intervention is required. Treatment typically involves gastric decontamination (if recent ingestion), intravenous fluids to restore blood pressure, and intensive monitoring to stabilize cardiac and renal function.
Custom Veterinary Compounding for Benazepril
For trusted veterinary compounding of Benazepril and other cardiac or renal medications, choose Rock Ridge Pharmacy. Our pharmacists prepare customized formulations to meet the precise needs of your pet’s condition.
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