Benefortin 5 mg 28 tablets | for heart failure in dogs and cats

Benefortin 5 mg is a treatment in tablet form containing benazepril hydrochloride, available in a box of 28 tablets. It is administered orally once daily in dogs with congestive heart failure and in cats to reduce proteinuria associated with chronic kidney disease.

What is it for

In dogs, it treats congestive heart failure caused by valvular insufficiency (mitral or tricuspid regurgitation) or dilated cardiomyopathy. In cats, it reduces protein loss in the urine, an indicator of chronic kidney disease. Benazepril is converted in the body to benazeprilat, which blocks angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE). This lowers angiotensin II and aldosterone levels, reducing blood pressure and fluid and sodium retention.

How it is used

Oral administration, with or without food. Dogs: 0,25 to 0,50 mg per kg of body weight, once a day. Cats: 0,50 mg per kg of body weight, once a day.

Composition and presentation

• Active ingredient: benazepril hydrochloride, flavored tablets.
• This presentation: 28 tablets of 5 mg.
• The range includes 2,5 mg (boxes of 28 and 140), 5 mg (boxes of 28 and 140) and 20 mg (box of 28).
• Store at no more than 25°C, in a dry place and out of the reach of children.
• The split tablets are used within 2 days, stored in the original blister pack.

Side Effects and Precautions

It should not be used in cases of hypotension, hypovolemia, or acute renal failure, and should be avoided in aortic or pulmonic stenosis. It is contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation. Lethargy, weakness, or hypotension may rarely occur. Hyperkalemia is a risk when used with potassium-sparing diuretics, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may reduce its antihypertensive effect. Wash your hands after administering; if ingested by a person, especially a pregnant woman, seek medical attention. Consult your veterinarian before starting or adjusting the dose.

FAQ

How is the dose of Benefortin calculated?

Between 0,25 and 0,50 mg per kg once a day. The veterinarian will determine the exact amount depending on the case.

Can it be combined with diuretics, pimobendan, or digoxin?

Yes, it can be combined with diuretics, pimobendan, and digoxin. With potassium-sparing diuretics, there is a risk of hyperkalemia, so this combination requires monitoring.

Is it suitable for cats with kidney problems?

In cats, it is indicated to reduce proteinuria associated with chronic kidney disease, with a dose of 0,50 mg per kg once a day.

What side effects can it have?

Rarely, lethargy, weakness, or hypotension may occur. It should be avoided in animals with low blood pressure, dehydration, or acute renal failure.

How do I store the tablets I break open?

Return them to the original blister pack and use them within 2 days. Otherwise, store at no more than 25°C and out of reach of children.