Patient was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Benazepril as follows: Benazepril increases potassium levels in the body. Be cautious about using any potassium supplements or any medications that increase the potassium levels in the body, such as, Spironolactone/Aldactone. Too high levels of potassium can be toxic to heart leading to complete heart block. Benazepril causes loss of sodium from the body and result in hyponatremia. Patients can present with nausea and vomiting, [...]

Patient was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Benazepril as follows: Observe compliance with regular lab work ordered. Since the drug can lead to high potassium levels in the body, potassium levels in the blood could be closely monitored. Also, as kidneys are the main source of elimination of the drug, renal function could be periodically monitored. Keep a watch on the volume of urine output, at least for the initial one month [...]

Patient was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Benazepril as follows: Drink 2.5 liters to 3 liters of fluid every day, as Benazepril tends to cause loss of fluid volume and consequently, dehydration. If fluid is restricted in an individual for reasons, such as, congestive heart failure or dialysis dependent status, compliance to the recommendation made is very important. Be aware of signs and symptoms of dehydration and hypotension, to avoid any episodes [...]

Patient was educated on the side effects of using Benazepril as follows: High potassium levels Benazepril tends to retain potassium in the body, in exchange for sodium loss. This can lead to high potassium levels, which can be very dangerous at times. Grossly elevated potassium levels can sometimes result in irregular heart rhythms, leading to episodes of dizziness, abnormally fast heart rate, palpitations, shortness of breath with poor endurance, and chest pain. Dry cough Dry [...]

Patient was educated on the side effects of using Benazepril as follows: Dehydration Benazepril by inhibiting secretion of aldosterone, results in water loss from the body. This can lead to fluid volume depletion and symptoms of dehydration. Low sodium levels Benazepril by inhibiting secretion of aldosterone, results in sodium loss from the body. This can lead to hyponatremia (low sodium levels in blood). Side effects include nausea and vomiting, extreme lethargy, muscle cramps, weakness, and [...]