Fortekor Tablet (Benazepril)
by Elanco
Description:
This is a prescription medication. Before purchasing it, your veterinarian must have issued a prescription. Always give as directed by your veterinarian. Keep out of reach of children and pets, and store as directed. This information is not intended to replace advice from your veterinarian.
Fortekor™ Flavour Tablets for Dogs and Cats
Active Ingredient:
Benazepril Hydrochloride (available in 2.5 mg, 5 mg, and 20 mg tablets)
Indications:
Fortekor™ is an ACE Inhibitor indicated for the treatment of:
- Heart failure in dogs: Commonly caused by mitral regurgitation (endocardiosis) and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). It helps by inhibiting the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), which improves the clinical status and extends the lifespan of dogs suffering from heart failure.
- Chronic kidney disease: In both cats and dogs, Fortekor™ reduces protein loss in urine, lowers systemic and intraglomerular blood pressure, and improves quality of life, particularly in advanced cases.
Key Benefits:
- Heart health support: Improves symptoms such as coughing and enhances the overall quality of life for dogs with heart failure.
- Kidney function support: Helps reduce proteinuria and improves survival rates in both dogs and cats suffering from chronic kidney disease.
- Can be used in combination with diuretics, digoxin, and antiarrhythmic drugs as needed for heart failure management.
Dosage & Administration:
Give as directed by your veterinarian. Administer orally once daily, with or without food. Unused half tablets should be returned to the blister pack and used within 2 days.
Precautions:
- Not recommended for use in breeding, pregnant, or lactating animals.
- Monitor hydration status and plasma creatinine levels at the start of treatment.
- Dogs and cats weighing less than 2.5 kg should not use this product.
- Use caution when administering with potassium-preserving diuretics or NSAIDs due to possible interactions.
Storage:
Store below 25°C, protect from moisture and heat. Unused half tablets should be returned to the blister pack and used within 2 days.
Disposal:
Dispose of empty containers by wrapping in paper and placing them in the garbage.
First Aid:
In case of poisoning, contact a doctor or Poisons Information Centre 0800 764 766
ACVM Registration Numbers:
- Fortekor 2.5 mg: A009195
- Fortekor Flavour 5 mg: A009859
- Fortekor Flavour 20 mg: A009858
Available only under Veterinary Authorisation.
Active Ingredient:
Each tablet contains the active ingredient Benazepril.
Tablet strengths available are 2.5mg, 5mg, 20mg
Additional Information:
Managing Pets Prescribed ACE Inhibitors for Heart and Kidney Conditions
If your pet has been prescribed an ACE inhibitor to manage heart failure or chronic kidney disease, here are some helpful tips to ensure the treatment is effective and supports your pet’s overall well-being:
Follow Your Vet's Instructions:
- Always administer the medication exactly as prescribed. The dosage will be based on your pet’s weight and medical condition. Do not change the dosage or frequency without consulting your vet.
Consistency is Important:
- Give the medication once daily as directed, either with or without food. Administer it at the same time each day to maintain stable drug levels in your pet’s system.
Monitor Your Pet’s Health:
- Keep a close eye on your pet for any changes in their symptoms or behaviour, particularly if they are being treated for heart failure or kidney disease. Look out for signs of improvement or any new symptoms such as lethargy, coughing, or loss of appetite.
- Regular veterinary check-ups, including blood work and kidney function tests, may be necessary to monitor your pet’s response to treatment and make any necessary adjustments.
Ensure Adequate Hydration and Nutrition:
- Pets with chronic kidney disease need to stay well-hydrated. Discuss with your vet about suitable dietary options, which might include low-protein or kidney-support diets that are designed to reduce strain on the kidneys.
Be Aware of Side Effects:
- Common side effects in pets taking ACE inhibitors may include mild vomiting or fatigue. These are usually temporary, but if they persist or worsen, contact your veterinarian. Signs of dizziness or weakness could indicate a drop in blood pressure and should be addressed immediately.
Drug Interactions:
- Inform your vet about any other medications or supplements your pet is taking. ACE inhibitors can interact with other drugs such as NSAIDs or diuretics, which could require additional monitoring to prevent complications.
Proper Storage:
- Store the medication below 25°C, away from moisture and heat. If you need to split the tablets, use the remaining half within two days and keep it in its original packaging.
Long-Term Treatment Commitment:
- ACE inhibitors are often prescribed for long-term management of chronic conditions. Even if your pet appears to be improving, continue the medication as instructed unless your veterinarian advises otherwise. Abruptly stopping the medication could lead to a recurrence or worsening of symptoms.
Additional Care:
- Alongside the medication, your vet may recommend other supportive measures, such as dietary changes, gentle exercise, or hydration strategies, particularly for pets with kidney disease. Follow these recommendations to help improve your pet's quality of life.
Stay in Contact with Your Veterinarian:
- Keep in regular contact with your vet and report any concerns or changes in your pet's health. Regular communication ensures that the treatment plan can be adjusted to suit your pet’s evolving needs.
- Pet
- Dog, Cat
- Product Form
- Tablet
- Delivery Method
- Oral
- Availability
- Prescription Only
- Categories