Amlodipine/benazepril

Amlodipine/Benazepril

Amlodipine structure

Amlodipine/benazepril is a combination medication used in the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure). It combines two active ingredients: amlodipine, a calcium channel blocker, and benazepril, an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACE inhibitor). This combination is effective in lowering blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels and reducing the workload on the heart.

Medical Uses

Amlodipine/benazepril is primarily prescribed for the management of hypertension. By lowering blood pressure, it helps to prevent complications such as stroke, myocardial infarction, and kidney failure. The combination of a calcium channel blocker and an ACE inhibitor provides a synergistic effect, making it more effective than either drug alone in certain patients.

Mechanism of Action

Amlodipine

Amlodipine is a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker. It works by inhibiting the influx of calcium ions into vascular smooth muscle and cardiac muscle. This action leads to vasodilation, or the widening of blood vessels, which reduces peripheral vascular resistance and lowers blood pressure.

Benazepril

Benazepril structure

Benazepril is an ACE inhibitor. It functions by blocking the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor. By reducing the levels of angiotensin II, benazepril decreases vasoconstriction and aldosterone secretion, leading to vasodilation and reduced blood pressure.

Side Effects

Common side effects of amlodipine/benazepril include dizziness, headache, cough, and edema (swelling). More serious side effects can occur, such as angioedema, hyperkalemia, and renal impairment. Patients should be monitored for these adverse effects, especially when starting the medication or adjusting the dose.

Contraindications

Amlodipine/benazepril is contraindicated in patients with a history of angioedema related to previous ACE inhibitor therapy. It should not be used during pregnancy due to the risk of fetal harm. Patients with severe renal impairment or hepatic impairment should use this medication with caution.

Related Pages

• Hypertension
• Calcium channel blocker
• ACE inhibitor
• Amlodipine
• Benazepril