Therapeutic Classification: antihypertensives
Pharmacologic Classification: ace inhibitors
Absorption: 37% absorbed after oral administration.
Distribution: Crosses the placenta; enters breast milk in small amounts.
Protein Binding: 95%.
Metabolism/Excretion: Converted by the liver to benazeprilat, the active metabolite; 20% excreted in urine; 11–12% nonrenal (biliary) elimination.
Half-Life: Benazeprilat: 10–11 hr.
(antihypertensive effect)
| ROUTE | ONSET | PEAK | DURATION |
|---|
| PO | within 1 hr* | 1–2 wks‡ | 24 hr‡ |
Contraindicated in:
- Hypersensitivity;
- History of angioedema with or without previous use of ACE inhibitors;
- Concurrent use with aliskiren in patients with diabetes or moderate-to-severe renal impairment (CCr <60 mL/min);
- OB: Pregnancy (may cause fetal harm).
Use Cautiously in:
- Patients with renal impairment, hypovolemia, hyponatremia, and concurrent diuretic therapy;
- Black patients (monotherapy for hypertension less effective, may require additional therapy; higher risk of angioedema);
- Surgery/anesthesia (hypotension may be exaggerated);
- Lactation: Use while breastfeeding only if potential maternal benefit outweighs potential risk to infant;
- Pedi: Children <6 yr (safety not established);
- Geri: Initial dose ↓ recommended.
Exercise Extreme Caution in:
- Family history of angioedema.
