High blood pressure may be controlled through the use of a prescription medication called benazepril. This drug, an angiotensin-converting enzyme or ACE inhibitor, reduces the amount of specific chemicals in the blood that are normally responsible for constricting or tightening the blood vessels. By reducing these chemicals, benazepril helps blood flow more efficiently and easily through the body. Patients should be aware of the potential side effects of benazepril before using this medication.
Headache
In clinical trials for benazepril, an estimated 6 percent of patients reported experiencing headache during treatment, according to Novartis, the pharmaceutical distributor of this medication. Head pain may disrupt a patient's ability to remain focused and alert. If headache pain is especially bothersome, treatment with an over-the-counter pain medication may help provide relief.
Dizziness
Sensations of dizziness may arise in patients treated with benazepril. This side effect may lead to difficulty remaining stable while standing or walking without assistance. Episodes of dizziness may be most severe when a patient attempts to sit up or stand up quickly, due to changes in blood pressure caused by such movements. Recurrent sensations of dizziness may contribute to nausea in certain people. Patients who become dizzy while receiving treatment with this medication should remain seated until the sensation passes, to prevent injury from tripping or falling.
Sleepiness or Fatigue
Benazepril may cause unusual sleepiness or fatigue in treated patients, Drugs.com warns. Increased fatigue may make it difficult for patients to remain active at home or work. Certain patients may need to take a nap during the day to restore energy levels.
Cough
A persistent cough may develop in patients treated with benazepril, MedlinePlus reports. Coughing may contribute to throat irritation, chest discomfort or mild breathing difficulties in certain patients. If a cough develops in conjunction with flulike symptoms, affected patients should seek care from a medical professional.
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