Fortekor (Benazepril Hydrochloride)

What is Fortekor?

Fortekor belongs to a general class of drugs known as ACE inhibitors, or angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors. Drugs related to Fortekor include moezipril (Univasc), captopril (Capoten), fosinopril (Monopril) and others. The active ingredient in this drug is benazepril, a chemical that blocks the chemical tramsmitters that can adversely affect the heart. These blocked chemicals are the products of angiotensin, a protein that constricts blood vessels. Fortekor is a prescription drug that must be obtained from a veterinarian. This drug is used to treat heart failure and kidney disease in dogs and cats, as well as high blood pressure and renal failure in cats. Fortekor has been shown to slow the progression of these illnesses in both dogs and cats. Fortekor is used primarily to treat and prevent heart failure in pets because it can reduce concentrations of harmful compounds that increase salt retention in the body, thus preventing serious injury to the heart muscle. Fortekor tablets can also slow the progression of kidney disease by reducing systemic blood pressure and maintaining normal glomerular capillary pressure. In addition, Fortekor reduces the levels of hormones that constrict blood vessels, reducing the risk of vascular and heart disease and high blood pressure.

How to use Fortekor

Fortekor is currently available in 2.5 mg, 5 mg and 20 mg tablets. Dosing requirements depend on the dog or cat's condition. Dogs and cats with heart failure or hypertension should be given 0.12 to 0.25 mg per pound orally once or twice daily. For example, a twenty-pound dog should take either a Fortekor 2.5 or Fortekor 5 tablet for each dose. Dosing recommendations for cats in renal failure are somewhat different: 0.25 to 0.5 mg per pound is the recommended dosage of Fortekor tablets once daily. Always complete an entire treatment plan when using Fortekor tablets to prevent relapse or drug resistance.

Fortekor warnings and precautions

Fortekor is usually an effective and safe treatment option when prescribed, although some Fortekor side effects may occur in some pets. Never use Fortekor tablets to treat an animal with a known allergy to the drug or hypersensitivity. This drug may also relax blood vessels, putting animals at risk of developing low blood pressure. Although not common, Fortekor may also change the blood supply to the kidneys, potentially leading to kidney failure. This side effect is most common in pets that are treated with higher doses, such as Fortekor 20. In addition, animals that already have kidney disease or use diuretic drugs may be at higher risk of developing Fortekor side effects. Cats in renal failure may see an initial rise in creatinine levels that should be monitored. This is due to the effect of the drug in regulating blood pressure and is not generally a reason to stop drug therapy, as long as other side effects are not present. Cats in renal failure should always have plasma urea and creatinine concentrations monitored while taking Fortekor for cats. Normal cats may also experience reduced erythrocyte counts with high doses, although this effect isn't observed at recommended dosage levels. In addition, Fortekor may interact with other drugs. Always consult a veterinarian to make sure your pet is not taking drugs that could interact. Other Fortekor side effects include decreased appetite, vomiting, changes in urination habits, weakness and lethargy. Fortekor for cats has also been shown to increase food consumption and body weight in cats, although this is generally not a reason to discontinue use. Simply monitor your cat's weight to counteract this effect. Never give Fortekor to pregnant or lactating animals, or animals that are used for breeding. Fortekor and other ACE inhibitors are shown to be teratogenic in the second and third trimesters of other species. Always contact your veterinarian right away if your dog or cat collapses while taking Fortekor. Al

What do I do if I have missed a Fortekor dose?

Overdose of Fortekor is generally safe in dogs and cats because the drug is well tolerated. If an accidental overdose occurs, common treatment includes an intravenous infusion of warm isotonic saline. In dogs, overdose of up to 200 times was asymptomatic. It's important to discuss misdose instructions with your veterinarian, who will give you advice specifically for your pet. It's common to double up on the next dose if you miss a dose of Fortekor, although your veterinarian may recommend against this. Only a vet that sees your dog or cat regularly will be able to instruct you about dosing steps to take.

Fortekor interactions

Fortekor has no known drug interactions in dogs. It may be given safely with anti-arrythmic drugs as well as digoxin and diuretics. However, interactions are possible with potassium-preserving drugs such as amiloride, triameteren and spironolactone. When using Fortekor with any combination of potassium-sparing dieretics it is recommended that plasma potassium levels be monitored. With human use, combining ACE inhibitors and NSAIDs can lead to impaired renal function as well as anti-hypertensive efficacy. Using NSAIDs with Fortekor should therefore be done with caution. Fortekor may also lead to additive hypotensive effects when used with other anti-hypertensive drugs like diuretics, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and anaesthetic.

Fortekor side effects

Fortekor has been known to cause a number of common side effects in both dogs and cats. Side effects include a decreased appetite, lethargy, vomiting, weakness, and changes in your pet's urination habits. These symptoms, while not necessarily serious, should be discussed with your veterinarian. In addition, all side effects of Fortekor are more common when Fortekor is administered with potent drugs like vasodilators and diuretics. Less common but serious Fortekor side effects include a reduced blood supply to the kidneys, potentially leading to kidney failure. This side effect is more likely with high doses. Fortekor for cats in renal failure may experience an initial rise in creatinine levels that must be monitored.