Fortekor Main Uses
Congestive Heart Failure (Dogs): Specifically indicated for the treatment of heart failure caused by mitral regurgitation (leaking heart valve) or dilated cardiomyopathy, often used in combination with standard therapies like diuretics.
Chronic Kidney Disease (Cats): Clinically used as an aid in the management of chronic renal insufficiency, particularly to reduce protein loss in the urine (proteinuria).
Hypertension Management: Commonly used to manage high blood pressure in both species to protect target organs like the eyes and brain from damage.
 
Fortekor Active Ingredients
Active Ingredients: Benazepril Hydrochloride.
Mechanism: Benazepril is a "prodrug" that is converted by the liver into its active form, benazeprilat. It acts as an Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. By blocking this enzyme, it prevents the formation of Angiotensin II, a hormone that constricts blood vessels and causes the body to retain salt and water.
Physiological Effects: By relaxing blood vessels, the medication lowers blood pressure and reduces the workload on the heart. In the kidneys, it reduces the pressure within the filtration units (glomeruli), which helps decrease the amount of protein leaking into the urine.
 
Fortekor Dosage & Administration
Dog Dosage: The standard minimum dose is 0.25 mg/kg of body weight, administered once daily. In some clinical cases, a veterinarian may increase this to 0.5 mg/kg once daily.
Cat Dosage: The standard dose is 0.5 mg/kg of body weight, administered once daily.
Administration Timing: Tablets are flavored for palatability and can be given with or without food. Consistency in timing (same time each day) is recommended.
Weight Restrictions: Safety and efficacy have not been established in dogs or cats weighing less than 2.5 kg (5.5 lbs).
 
Fortekor Side Effects & Safety
Common Side Effects: May include mild vomiting, diarrhea, or a temporary decrease in appetite. Some dogs may show signs of fatigue or lethargy.
Rare/Serious Side Effects: Hypotension (low blood pressure) which may manifest as weakness or fainting. In cats, an increase in food consumption and weight gain has occasionally been noted.
Contraindications: Do not use in pets with known hypersensitivity (allergies) to ACE inhibitors.
Do not use in cases of hypotension, low blood sodium (hyponatraemia), or acute kidney failure.
Do not use in pregnant or lactating animals, as ACE inhibitors can cause birth defects or fetal death.
Drug Interactions: Caution is required when using alongside Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), as the combination may increase the risk of kidney toxicity.
Duration of Use: Typically used as a lifelong maintenance medication for chronic conditions.
 
Fortekor Manufacturer Information
Manufacturer: Elanco Canada Limited.
Official Website: https://www.elanco.com/en-ca
Brand Introduction: Elanco is a global leader in animal health with a history spanning over 70 years. Originally part of Eli Lilly and Company, Elanco became an independent entity and is known for developing a wide range of veterinary-exclusive pharmaceuticals and parasiticides focused on improving the quality of life for companion animals.