I started taking Benazepril (a generic for Lotensin) starting about a week ago, instead of Accupril. Today for the first time in a long time I felt pretty good with no headache I always kinda associated with the Accupril. I realize these are all the same family (ACE inhibiters) but do you think a change within the family could produce fewer side effects. Accupril always produced "the cough" and headache I think.

jrm,

It sounds like your dosage is about right?

[QUOTE]. Adults : The recommended initial dose for patients not receiving a diuretic is 10 mg once-a-day. The usual maintenance dosage range is 20-40 mg per day administered as a single dose or in two equally divided doses. A dose of 80 mg gives an increased response, but experience with this dose is limited. The divided regimen was more effective in controlling trough (pre-dosing) blood pressure than the same dose given as a once-daily regimen. Dosage adjustment should be based on measurement of peak (2-6 hours after dosing) and trough responses. If a once-daily regimen does not give adequate trough response, an increase in dosage or divided administration should be considered. If blood pressure is not controlled with Lotensin alone, a diuretic can be added.

Total daily doses above 80 mg have not been evaluated.

Here's a hint if finances are tight: The 40 mg. tablet costs the same as the 20 mg. (about $.80 each at a discount pharmacy.) Sounds like a perfect job for the pill-splitter.
Also captopril is a FAR cheaper alternative (about $.20 a pill.)

Benazepril is the generic for Lotensin and much cheaper. So I get the former at a discount pharmacy for about $.33 a pill. I'm reluctant to take a diuretic yet until I get drinking totally under control, as alcohol dehydrates you. I've had problems with dehydration in the past. Is a "trough response" a high or low BP condition? The phrase suggests a low followed by a high. I appreciate your responses.