What You Need to Know About Benazepril (Fortekor, VetACE)

What is benazepril? Why was it prescribed to my pet?
Benazepril is a medication that acts on blood vessels to relax them, thereby lowering blood pressure. It is used to treat high blood pressure associated with conditions such as heart failure and chronic kidney disease. 
A subset of pets with chronic kidney disease are prone to having protein in their urine, which benazepril also helps to treat. 

What forms are available?
Benazepril is available in tablet forms which are given by mouth. Tablets may be given with or without food.
Always follow your veterinarian’s instructions when giving medication to your pet.
Tablet forms:
•    Fortekor 5mg Tablets
•    VetACE 5mg / 20mg Tablets
•    Generic (1 - Benzapet), (2 - Kardiofit)

VetACE, a branded form of benazepril, is available in 20mg tablets to suit larger dogs.

What side effects are there?
Some pets may experience decreased appetite, vomiting or diarrhoea. These are usually mild and self-limiting. They are not a cause for concern unless they are severe, worsen or continue over a long period of time.
Contact your veterinarian if you notice:
•    Lethargy
•    Rash
•    Fever
•    Weakness

When should benazepril be used very carefully?
Your veterinarian may take additional precautions if your pet:
•    Has low sodium in their blood
•    Has severe liver disease
•    Has lupus (an autoimmune disease)
•    Is taking other medications for blood pressure, anxiety or pain relief
Precautions may include measures such as closer monitoring or adjustments to medication doses. For advice specific to your pet, please consult your veterinarian.

When should benazepril not be used?
Your pet should not receive benazepril if they:
•    Are allergic to it, or to similar medications (such as enalapril)
•    Are pregnant, breastfeeding or being used for breeding

What monitoring is required for pets on benazepril?
It is important to take your veterinarian’s advice and bring your pet for rechecks as needed.
Depending on your pet’s underlying condition, your veterinarian may wish to monitor: 
•    Your pet’s blood pressure
•    Blood parameters related to kidney function
•    Electrolytes (salts) in your pet’s blood
•    Other parameters related to your pet’s condition, such as the number of breaths taken each minute while asleep 

Storage and safety
Keep all medications out of reach of children and pets. Benazepril should be stored at room temperature in a dry place. Any uneaten half or quarter tablets should be returned to their packaging and used within 1-2 days.

Give this medication for as long as your veterinarian specifies and do not discontinue it without first consulting them. If you miss a dose, give it as soon as possible, but if it is near the time of your pet’s next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and give the scheduled dose. Afterwards, return to your pet’s regular dosing regimen. 

Never give a double dose, even if you miss a dose. Contact your veterinarian if you know or suspect that your pet has received an overdose.