Both benazepril and lisinopril, being ACE inhibitors, share similar potential drug interactions. Careful monitoring is crucial.
Interactions Requiring Caution or Dose Adjustment:
- Potassium-sparing diuretics (e. g., spironolactone, amiloride): Combining these with ACE inhibitors can lead to dangerously high potassium levels (hyperkalemia). Regular potassium level monitoring is recommended. NSAIDs (e. g., ibuprofen, naproxen): NSAIDs can reduce the blood pressure-lowering effect of ACE inhibitors. Your doctor may need to adjust your ACE inhibitor dose or consider an alternative pain reliever. Lithium: ACE inhibitors can increase lithium levels, potentially causing toxicity. Close monitoring of lithium levels is vital. Aliskiren (a direct renin inhibitor): Combining aliskiren with ACE inhibitors is generally not recommended, particularly in patients with diabetes or kidney disease, due to an increased risk of kidney problems and high potassium levels.
Interactions Requiring Specific Attention:
Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can worsen the hypotensive effects of ACE inhibitors. Moderate alcohol intake should be discussed with your physician. Other antihypertensive medications: Combining ACE inhibitors with other blood pressure-lowering drugs (e. g., beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers) may cause excessive blood pressure reduction. Your doctor will carefully manage your medication regimen.
Important Considerations:
This information is not exhaustive. Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you are taking before starting benazepril or lisinopril. This includes over-the-counter drugs. Regular checkups, including blood tests, are necessary to monitor your health and adjust medication as needed.
