CARDALIS® (Spironolactone and Benazepril Hydrochloride) Chewable Tablet
CARDALIS® (Spironolactone and Benazepril Hydrochloride) is an FDA-approved preparation containing Spironolactone and Benazepril Hydrochloride, for veterinary use. Available by prescription.
Veterinarians most commonly consider CARDALIS® for patients presented with congestive heart failure resulting from myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD). It is frequently a point of discussion when a patient require multi-modal support to address the complex hormonal shifts that occur as cardiovascular health declines. By delivering two distinct active ingredients simultaneously, your veterinarian can manage the mechanical workload on the heart while also addressing the biochemical pathways that contribute to long-term cardiac tissue changes.
At a pharmacological level, this medication functions through the complementary actions of spironolactone and benazepril. Benazepril is a prodrug converted in the body to benazeprilat, which inhibits the ACE enzyme. This process help address the production of angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor, thereby promoting systemic vasodilation and managing the initial signals for sodium and water retention. Spironolactone acts as a competitive antagonist of aldosterone receptors. It specifically manages the physiological effects of aldosterone "escape," a phenomenon where the body bypasses ACE inhibition to produce aldosterone independently. This dual approach provides a comprehensive modulation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), which is a primary clinical objective in canine cardiology. Your veterinarian will determine the clinical appropriateness of this medication based on diagnostic findings such as echocardiography or thoracic radiographs.
The actions described here reflect the product's FDA-approved labeling; your veterinarian determines the appropriate use for your animal.
Prescription only. Use only under the direction of a licensed veterinarian. This information is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, prescribing or monitoring.
Commonly observed effects following the administration of CARDALIS® include localized digestive changes such as vomiting or diarrhea, as well as behavioral shifts like lethargy or a decrease in appetite. Because this medication influences blood pressure and electrolyte balance, some pets may experience hypotension (low blood pressure) or hyperkalemia (high potassium), which can manifest as significant weakness or disorientation. Your veterinarian will monitor renal parameters and potassium concentrations through periodic blood work to ensure the management approach remains suitable for your pet's status. Owners should watch for signs of persistent weakness and contact their veterinarian promptly if these occur.
This medication is typically used with extra caution or avoided in patients with known severe renal or hepatic impairment, hyperkalemia or Addison’s disease. It is also carefully evaluated in breeding, pregnant or lactating dogs, as ACE inhibitors are associated with specific developmental considerations for fetal health. Before starting a protocol, ensure your veterinarian has a complete history of all other prescriptions and supplements your pet is receiving, as significant interactions can occur with certain diuretics or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs). Your veterinarian is the right person to provide guidance on the necessary monitoring frequency and the proper administration schedule to ensure the management approach remains suitable for your pet.
Yes. CARDALIS® is a combination prescription medication and can only be dispensed by a licensed pharmacy upon receipt of a valid authorization from a licensed veterinarian. Mixlab verifies all authorizations before any medication is prepared or shipped to your home.
CARDALIS® is a proprietary commercial flavored tablet available in specific fixed-dose combinations. While Mixlab specializes in compounding many medications, this specific combination is typically dispensed in its original commercial packaging to ensure the stability and precise delivery of the active ingredients as intended by the manufacturer.
Veterinarians discuss this combination for pets with heart failure to address two separate parts of the body's hormonal response. By using an ACE inhibitor and an aldosterone antagonist together, the medication manages both the pressure in the blood vessels and the hormones that can lead to fluid retention and heart tissue scarring.
High potassium, or hyperkalemia, may manifest as muscle weakness, a very slow or irregular heart rate or localized gastrointestinal upset. If your pet appears unusually tired or stumbles while walking after starting CARDALIS®, you should contact your veterinarian immediately so they can perform a clinical assessment and blood work.
