Benazepril Compounded Soft Chews for Dogs

Description

Benazepril Compounded Soft Chews for Dogs are prescription medications prepared specifically for an individual dog's needs. Benazepril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor used to help manage high blood pressure and may also be prescribed for certain other cardiovascular conditions.

Benazepril helps promote relaxation of blood vessels, which can help lower blood pressure and reduce resistance against which the heart must pump. ACE inhibitors may be used alone or alongside other veterinarian-prescribed cardiovascular medications depending on the dog's condition.

The compounded soft chew formulation provides an alternative for dogs that have difficulty taking conventional tablets. The chews are beef steak flavored and individually sealed in blister packaging to help maintain freshness and their soft texture.

Uses & Benefits

• Helps manage high blood pressure in dogs
• May be prescribed for certain cardiovascular conditions
• May be incorporated into treatment plans for congestive heart failure
• Helps promote relaxation of blood vessels
• Helps decrease vascular resistance
• Helps reduce the workload placed on the heart
• ACE inhibitor medication
• May be prescribed alone or with other medications
• Compounded specifically for the individual dog
• Soft chew alternative to conventional tablets
• Beef steak flavored for palatability
• Individually sealed to maintain freshness and texture
• Does not require refrigeration

How It Works

Benazepril is an ACE inhibitor. After administration, benazepril is converted to its active metabolite, benazeprilat.

ACE inhibitors interfere with the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system by reducing formation of angiotensin II, a substance that promotes blood vessel constriction. Reducing angiotensin II allows blood vessels to relax, helping decrease vascular resistance and blood pressure.

This effect can also reduce the workload placed on the heart, which is why ACE inhibitors may be incorporated into veterinarian-directed treatment plans for certain cardiovascular conditions.

Indications

For veterinarian-directed use in dogs for conditions that may include:

• Hypertension / Congestive heart failure / Certain cardiovascular conditions / Other conditions responsive to ACE inhibition

The veterinarian should determine whether benazepril is appropriate based on the individual dog's diagnosis, overall health, and treatment plan.

Ingredients

Active Ingredients:

• Benazepril Hydrochloride

The amount of benazepril in each compounded soft chew is prepared according to the veterinarian's prescription.

Inactive Ingredients:

The soft chews are beef steak flavored.

Refer to the pharmacy for complete inactive ingredient information if the dog has known food allergies or ingredient sensitivities.

Directions

Administer orally exactly as prescribed by your veterinarian.

The soft chew may be given directly to the dog according to the dosage and frequency printed on the prescription label.

Because this medication is compounded specifically for the individual dog, follow the prescription directions provided with the medication.

Administer the exact amount prescribed by the veterinarian. 

Cautions

• For animal use only.
• For use in dogs.
• Prescription required.
• Administer only to the dog for which the medication was prescribed.
• Benazepril may cause excessively low blood pressure in some dogs.
• ACE inhibitors can affect kidney function and blood potassium levels.
• Use cautiously in dogs that are dehydrated or have low blood pressure.
• Tell your veterinarian about all medications and supplements the dog receives.
• Dogs receiving other cardiovascular medications may require additional monitoring.
• Keep out of reach of children and other animals.

Possible Side Effects

Benazepril is generally well tolerated when appropriately prescribed, but possible adverse effects may include:

• Decreased appetite / Vomiting / Diarrhea / Lethargy or weakness / Low blood pressure / Changes in kidney values / Changes in blood potassium

Contact your veterinarian if an unexpected or concerning reaction develops.

Precautions

• Follow the veterinarian-prescribed dosage and frequency
• Do not adjust the dosage without veterinary direction
• Blood pressure may need to be monitored during treatment
• Kidney function and electrolytes may require periodic monitoring
• Use cautiously in dogs with kidney impairment
• Use cautiously in dogs that are dehydrated or have low blood pressure
• Tell your veterinarian about diuretics, NSAIDs, potassium supplements, and other cardiovascular medications
• Discuss use in pregnant, breeding, or nursing dogs with your veterinarian
• Monitor appetite, energy level, drinking, urination, and overall condition during treatment
• Contact your veterinarian if the dog's condition worsens or concerning symptoms develop

Storage

Store at room temperature. Do not refrigerate. The compounded soft chews may melt when exposed to extreme heat. Do not expose the chews to temperatures above 115°F. Keep the soft chews in their individually sealed blister packaging until ready for administration to help maintain freshness and soft texture.

Disposal

Dispose of unused or expired compounded medication according to pharmacist, veterinarian, or applicable local medication disposal recommendations.
Do not give leftover prescription medication to another animal.
Do not use beyond the beyond-use date printed on the pharmacy packaging.