Lotensin

Lotensin: an effective remedy for controlling blood pressure

Lotensin, also known by its international name Benazepril, is an antihypertensive drug belonging to the group of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It is widely used to treat hypertension, symptomatic hypertension and heart failure. Lotensin is manufactured in Switzerland by Ciba-Geigy and is available in the form of film-coated tablets with dosages of 10 mg and 20 mg of the active substance Benazepril.

The action of Lotensin is based on its ability to inhibit the angiotensin-converting enzyme, which is responsible for the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II. Angiotensin II is a powerful vasoconstrictor and increases blood pressure. By blocking the action of angiotensin II, Lotensin promotes vasodilation and lowers blood pressure.

Despite its effectiveness, Lotensin has some contraindications and side effects. Contraindications include hypersensitivity to the drug, angioedema, systemic lupus erythematosus, systemic scleroderma, cerebrovascular insufficiency, renal artery stenosis, presence of only one kidney, renal transplant, impaired liver and kidney function, hyperkalemia and bone marrow hypoplasia.

Taking Lotensin may be accompanied by some side effects, such as hypotension (lowering blood pressure), dry cough, plaque on the tongue, tonsils and throat, chest pain, symptoms of hyperkalemia (including arrhythmias, tremors of the limbs and lips, increased irritability and difficulty breathing), exacerbation of pancreatitis, dyspeptic symptoms, neutropenia, agranulocytosis and allergic reactions (such as skin rashes, joint pain and angioedema).

It is also important to consider possible interactions of Lotensin with other drugs. For example, alcohol, diuretics, and other antihypertensive drugs may increase its hypotensive effect, while estrogens and sympathomimetics may decrease its effect. Potassium-sparing diuretics and potassium-containing supplements may lead to hyperkalemia when used concomitantly with Lotensin.

You should always consult your doctor before starting to take Lotensin or any other medicine. The doctor will be able to evaluate the patient and decide whether to take Lotensin based on his medical history, current health status and other medications he is taking.

It is important to follow your doctor's recommendations regarding the dosage and regimen of taking Lotensin. You should not change the dosage or stop taking the drug without consulting your doctor. Regular blood pressure monitoring and consultation with a doctor will help monitor your health status and the effectiveness of treatment.

In conclusion, Lotensin is an effective remedy for controlling blood pressure. It belongs to the group of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and helps lower blood pressure by dilating blood vessels. However, like all medications, Lotensin has contraindications, side effects and interactions with other drugs, so you should consult your doctor before using it.