Lexxel

Some people taking Lexxel develop a dry, nagging cough. This will go away when you stop taking the drug. Others are troubled by swollen gums. Good dental hygiene makes this less likely.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Lexxel

If Lexxel is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Lexxel with the following:

• Cimetidine
• Diuretics such as furosemide or hydrochlorothiazide
• Diuretics that leave potassium in the body, such as amiloride, spironolactone, and triamterene
• Epilepsy medications such as carbamazepine, phenobarbital, and phenytoin
• Erythromycin
• Grapefruit juice
• High-fat meals
• Itraconazole
• Lithium
• Potassium supplements

Because Lexxel tends to increase your potassium level, avoid potassium-containing salt substitutes unless your doctor approves.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Do not take Lexxel during pregnancy. When taken during the final 6 months, the ACE inhibitor in Lexxel can cause birth defects, prematurity, and death in the developing or newborn baby. If you are pregnant, inform your doctor immediately.

Lexxel may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If this medication is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to stop breastfeeding.

Recommended dosage for Lexxel

ADULTS

Lexxel is available in two strengths. Lexxel 5-2.5 contains 5 milligrams of enalapril and 2.5 milligrams of felodipine. Lexxel 5-5 contains 5 milligrams of each.

The usual starting dose is 1 tablet of Lexxel 5-5 once a day. If there is no change in your blood pressure after 1 or 2 weeks, the doctor may increase your dose to 2 tablets once a day. If your blood pressure still remains too high, the dose may be increased to 4 tablets of Lexxel once a day. The doctor may also add a water pill (containing a thiazide) to your regimen.

CHILDREN

The safety and effectiveness of Lexxel in children have not been established.

OLDER ADULTS

If you are over 65, your doctor may have to monitor your blood pressure closely at the beginning of treatment, and adjust your dose with care.

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical treatment immediately.

• Symptoms of Lexxel overdose may include:
  Low blood pressure, rapid heartbeat