CALCIUM CHANNEL BLOCKER /

ANGIOTENSIN CONVERTING ENZYME (ACE) INHIBITOR COMBINATION

Name              Trade Name                            Generic Name

                        Lotrel                                      Amlodipine/Benazepril

                        Lexxel                                     Enalapril/Felodipine

                        Tarka                                       Trandolapril/Verapamil HCI

Use                  Treat high blood pressure

Action             ACE inhibitors block enzymes which dilates the blood vessels, reduces the workload upon the heart and lowers the blood pressure.  Calcium channel blockers relax or dilate the blood vessels of the body.  These two approaches to blockade and blood vessel dilation lower blood pressure.

Possible Side Effects

Every drug is capable of producing side effects.  Most patients experience no, or minor, side effects.  Possible side effects:

• Common: Lightheadedness, cough, swollen ankles
• Rare: Potassium retention, swelling of tongue or difficulty breathing, yellowing of the skin or eyes, muscle pain, swollen gums, headache, upset stomach

Guidelines for Taking This Medication

• May be taken without regard to food
• Take your medication at the same time each day
• If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember; do not take it if it is almost time for the next dose
• Do not stop this medication, unless directed by your doctor or nurse
• To avoid lightheadedness, rise from a sitting or lying position slowly
• Notify your doctor or nurse promptly if you develop swelling of hands or feet, swelling of the tongue, difficulty breathing, skin rash, yellowing of skin or eyes or persistent dry cough, swelling of gums, headache or upset stomach
• Do not take a potassium supplement unless prescribed by the doctor
• Avoid salt substitutes containing potassium
• Be aware of foods that are high in potassium, such as avocados, bananas, dried fruits, melons, brussel sprouts, cauliflower, potatoes, beans and nuts
• Good dental hygiene decreases the incidence of swollen, bleeding gums
• Avoid over-the-counter cough, cold, allergy and diet medications except upon professional recommendation
• Do not take more than 10-20mg of Zocor (Simvastatin) a commonly prescribed cholesterol medication, dose to be determined by your physician.
• Check your blood pressure regularly at home

Follow-up Tests

• Blood test to monitor electrolytes and kidney function

ver 12.