According to the Drugs.com website, Lotrel is an oral, prescription medication that you take for the treatment of high blood pressure. It is a combination of a calcium channel blocker drug that relaxes blood vessels, and a drug that blocks the formation of a substance that causes blood vessels to become narrow. By relaxing blood vessels and preventing them from constricting, Lotrel lowers blood pressure and increases the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart, says Drugs.com.
Harm to Fetus
If you are pregnant, you should not take Lotrel because it may cause serious harm or even death to the fetus, says the Drugs.com website. If you become pregnant while you are on Lotrel therapy, you should tell your doctor and stop taking the medication as soon as possible.
Allergic Reactions
According to the Drugs.com website, Lotrel may cause severe and possibly life-threatening allergic reactions. If you have symptoms such as rash, itching, hoarseness, trouble breathing or swallowing, or swelling of the hands, face, lips, tongue or throat, you should call your doctor immediately.
Dizziness/Lightheadedness
After you take your first dose of Lotrel, you may experience dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting; therefore, you need to assess how this drug will affect you before you drive or perform any activities that require alertness, says Drugs.com.
Susceptibility to Infection
According to the Mayo Clinic, you may be more likely to get an infection while taking Lotrel because of a low, white blood cell count. If you develop a fever, sore throat, or chills, you should immediately call your doctor.
Liver Problems
While you are taking Lotrel, you may develop problems with your liver, says the Mayo Clinic. Symptoms of liver problems may include abdominal pain, clay-colored stools, dark urine, fever, headache, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, skin rash, swelling of the feet and lower legs, unusual weakness, and yellow eyes or skin. If you notice more than one of these symptoms, call your doctor right away.
Bleeding Gums
The Mayo Clinic warns that shortly after beginning treatment with Lotrel, you may develop swelling, pain, and bleeding in your gums. To decrease the likelihood that this problem will occur, you should carefully brush and floss your teeth and massage your gums on a regular basis.
High Blood Potassium
The Drugs.com website says that you may experience high levels of potassium in your blood while you are taking this medication. Symptoms include confusion, difficulty breathing, irregular heartbeat, nervousness, numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, or lips, and shortness of breath. Consult your doctor about these symptoms without delay.
