Lotrel is a combination medication, which contains both amlodipine and benazepril. It is used for the treatment of high blood pressure. According to Drugs.com, Lotrel is usually given after other blood pressure medications have been tried without successful treatment. Lotrel may be prescribed in conjunction with other medications and diet and exercise. There are some side effects associated with Lotrel 5/20.
Cough
Some patients taking Lotrel may experience cough. Cough may be relieved by the use of humidified air and throat lozenges. If cough becomes bothersome, a physician may recommend switching to a different type of anti-hypertensive drug. A cough that becomes severe or occurs in conjunction with fever, swollen lymph nodes, difficulty breathing, or yellow or green tinged mucous may be a sign of a bacterial infection.
Headache and Dizziness
Some patients taking Lotrel 5/20 may experience headache and dizziness. Patients should be careful while driving or doing anything that requires them to be awake and alert, explains PDRHealth. Drinking alcohol while taking Lotrel should be avoided, as it may increase these side effects. Headache and dizziness may be a sign of hypotension, or low blood pressure. Patients taking anti-hypertensive medication, such as Lotrel, should be instructed how to monitor their blood pressures regularly at home and when to consult their doctors.
Diarrhea and Constipation
Diarrhea and constipation can occur in patients taking Lotrel 5/20. Taking Lotrel with food, or in the evening may help lessen these effects. According to Drugs.com, users can easily become dehydrated while taking Lotrel, which can lead to severely low blood pressure or a serious electrolyte imbalance. Drinking a sufficient amount of fluids each day will help the body remain hydrated. Eating foods that are high in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, may help diminish constipation. Mild exercise, if recommended by a doctor, may work to increase gastrointestinal transit time, which can also help to alleviate constipation. Severe or persistent diarrhea or constipation should be brought to the attention of a physician.
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