Lisinopril is a widely prescribed medication that belongs to the class of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It is commonly used for managing high blood pressure, treating heart failure, and improving survival after heart attacks. Lisinopril is particularly effective in preventing kidney complications in people with diabetes and in lowering the risk of cardiovascular events like strokes and heart attacks.

What is Lisinopril?

Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor that works by relaxing blood vessels so blood can flow more easily. It is typically used as a first-line treatment for hypertension (high blood pressure) and is also prescribed for heart failure, post-heart attack care, and kidney protection in type 2 diabetes patients.

What are the Benefits and Uses of Lisinopril?

Discover how this medication helps support heart and circulatory system health, while improving overall cardiovascular function.

  • Lowers blood pressure to reduce the risk of strokes and heart attacks
  • Manages symptoms of heart failure
  • Improves survival rate after heart attacks
  • Helps protect kidney function in diabetic patients

Conditions Lisinopril Treats

  • High blood pressure (hypertension)
  • Heart failure
  • Acute myocardial infarction (heart attack)
  • Diabetic nephropathy (kidney issues in diabetes)

Secondary Uses of Lisinopril

While not its primary indication, it may also be used in patients with certain types of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and in those undergoing long-term cardiovascular risk management.

How Does Lisinopril Work?

Lisinopril works by blocking the action of the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), which is part of a system that narrows blood vessels and raises blood pressure. By inhibiting this enzyme, lisinopril causes blood vessels to relax and widen, lowering blood pressure and reducing strain on the heart.

Lisinopril Dosage

Lisinopril should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. It is usually taken once daily, with or without food. Dosage depends on your medical condition and response to treatment. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your blood pressure readings or kidney function over time.

What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one do not double up to catch up.

What Happens if an Overdose?

In case of an overdose, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include

  • extreme dizziness
  • fainting
  • difficulty breathing.

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What are the Side Effects of Lisinopril?

Learn about the potential reactions your body might have to this medicine, from mild discomforts to symptoms that require medical attention.

Common Side Effects:

  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Cough
  • Fatigue
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Cold-like symptoms (sneezing, sore throat, runny nose)

Serious Side Effects:

  • Chest pain
  • Fainting
  • Blurred vision
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat (angioedema)
  • Decreased urine output or signs of kidney issues

If any side effects worsen or become severe, consult your doctor immediately.

Precautions and Warnings

Understand who should take extra care before starting this drug, including specific health conditions and lifestyle factors that may increase risk.

  • Do not use it if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It can harm an unborn baby.
  • Inform your doctor if you have had angioedema, kidney problems, or are on dialysis.
  • Be cautious if taking potassium supplements or salt substitutes.
  • Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects.
  • Avoid alcohol, as it can further lower your blood pressure.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Using Lisinopril?

Lisinopril is typically used in adults. Pediatric use is determined by a physician and may be approved in certain cases, such as hypertension in children aged 6 and above.

Alcohol or Food Interactions

  • Alcohol can increase dizziness and the blood-pressure-lowering effects of lisinopril.
  • Avoid potassium-rich foods or supplements unless approved by your doctor.

Possible Interactions with Other Medications (Drug Interactions)

Find out how lisinopril might react when taken with other drugs, and why it's important to review all your prescriptions with your healthcare provider.

Lisinopril may interact with:

  • ARBs (e.g., losartan, valsartan)
  • Lithium (increased risk of toxicity)
  • Diuretics (may enhance low blood pressure risk)
  • NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen-can reduce kidney function)
  • Potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics
  • Aliskiren and other blood pressure medications

Let all your healthcare providers know you're taking lisinopril.

How Should Lisinopril Be Stored?

  • Store at room temperature in a dry place, away from light and moisture
  • Do not store in the bathroom
  • If using a suspension form, discard unused liquid after 4 weeks

What Happens If Lisinopril Is Not Stored Properly?

Poor storage (e.g., moisture, heat) may reduce the effectiveness of the medication. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Dispose of expired or unused medication'safely-do not flush down the toilet.

Lisinopril vs Enalapril

Lisinopril Enalapril
Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, and heart attacks. Enalapril is an ACE inhibitor used to treat high blood pressure, diabetic kidney problems, and heart failure.
Typically used as a first-line treatment for high blood pressure. Enalapril oral tablet treats hypertension, heart failure, and asymptomatic left ventricular dysfunction.
Used to treat heart failure and people who have had a heart attack. Can treat heart failure but not heart attacks.

References

Lisinopril
Lisinopril Oral Route Description
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Frequently Asked Questions

Long-term use of lisinopril can potentially lead to heart, artery, and kidney damage if untreated, increasing the risk of stroke, heart failure, or kidney failure.

Lisinopril, an ACE inhibitor, relaxes and widens blood vessels, lowering blood pressure and improving heart efficiency. It also protects kidneys and slows diabetic kidney disease progression.

Yes, it's recommended to drink plenty of water while on lisinopril to prevent dehydration, which can sometimes occur due to its effects on blood pressure and kidney function.

Avoid excessive consumption of high-potassium foods like bananas, oranges, potatoes, tomatoes, squash, and dark leafy greens while on lisinopril, as it can increase blood potassium levels.

Lisinopril can cause swelling in the intestines, potentially leading to bowel obstruction, a serious complication that may be difficult to diagnose.

Common side effects of lisinopril include nausea, headaches, anxiety, insomnia, and drowsiness. Allergic reactions should be monitored closely.

Lisinopril's effects on blood pressure typically last beyond its 12-hour half-life, with some impact persisting up to 24 hours after ingestion.

Lisinopril can cause gastrointestinal symptoms like abdominal pain, cramping, nausea, and vomiting in some individuals.

Lisinopril effectively lowers both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, with superior effects on systolic pressure compared to some other medications.

While beneficial for many kidney conditions, lisinopril and other ACE inhibitors can have adverse effects on kidney function if not properly monitored.


Disclaimer: The information provided is accurate and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge. However, it should not be considered a substitute for medical advice or consultation. We do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The absence of specific warnings does not mean a medicine is safe for all users. We are not responsible for any outcomes based on this information and strongly recommend consulting a doctor for any medical concerns or questions.

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