Changing from Lotrel to Benicar - Drug Interactions / Side Effects Message Board

hongryhawg · 03-06-2009, 04:21 PM

My doctor wants to change my blood pressure medicine because my ankles continue to swell despite taking Lasix. All blood work is fine. She thinks this change will reduce or eliminate swelling. I have taken Lotrel for 5 yrs with no side effects (that I can tell). The Benicar instructions say to avoid alcohol. I like a couple of beers a day. Any danger in that, anyone? Any advice? Thanks

DW123 · 04-10-2009, 06:59 PM

I have been taking Lotrell for 2 years now, but have been taking Norvasc(which is a component of Lotrell) for 14 years. Never had swelling of my feet. I am also taking Atacand which is very similar to Benicar. Instructions say also to avoid alcohol. believe it may cut down on it's effectiveness. I don't drink so it doesn't apply to me.My advice would be to avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.