Generic Name: Lisinopril
Brand Names: Prinivil, Zestril
Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, and improve survival after heart attack. It works by relaxing blood vessels and reducing strain on the heart.
is prescribed to treat:
• High blood pressure (hypertension) • Heart failure • Improve survival after heart attack • Diabetic kidney disease (nephropathy) • Chronic kidney disease • Prevent cardiovascular events in high-risk patients
It helps protect the heart, kidneys, and blood vessels from damage.
Common side effects may include:
• Dry cough (most common) • Dizziness or lightheadedness • Headache • Fatigue • Nausea • Diarrhea
Serious side effects (seek immediate medical attention):
• Angioedema (swelling of face, lips, tongue, throat) • Signs of high potassium (muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat) • Fainting • Difficulty breathing • Chest pain • Severe dizziness • Signs of kidney problems (change in urine amount, swelling) • Yellowing of skin or eyes
Lisinopril is one of the most widely prescribed medications in the United States, belonging to a class of drugs called ACE inhibitors (angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors). It is primarily used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure, and to improve survival after heart attack.
Lisinopril works by inhibiting the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE):
Heart Failure:
Post-Myocardial Infarction:
Diabetic Nephropathy:
Chronic Kidney Disease:
Lisinopril dosing varies by indication:
For Hypertension:
For Heart Failure:
For Post-MI:
Administration Tips:
Avoid lisinopril if you:
One of the most common and bothersome side effects of lisinopril is a persistent dry cough, occurring in 10-20% of patients:
Characteristics:
When to Consider Switching:
Important interactions include:
Medications Increasing Potassium:
Other Important Interactions:
⚠️ CRITICAL WARNING: ACE inhibitors like lisinopril can cause serious harm or death to an unborn baby if taken during the second or third trimester. If you become pregnant, stop lisinopril immediately and contact your doctor.
Pregnancy:
Breastfeeding:
Regular monitoring is essential:
Blood Pressure:
Kidney Function:
Potassium Levels:
Electrolytes:
Some patients experience significant blood pressure drop with the first dose, especially if:
Precautions:
Kidney Disease:
Elderly:
Black Patients:
Diabetics:
Angioedema is a rare but serious side effect:
What is it?
Risk Factors:
Action:
To maximize benefits of lisinopril:
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
Contact your doctor for non-emergency issues:
Extensive research demonstrates that lisinopril:
Lisinopril is often combined with:
Store lisinopril at room temperature (68-77°F/20-25°C) away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep in original container. Protect from excessive humidity. Keep out of reach of children.
Lisinopril is available as an affordable generic medication and is on most $4 generic medication lists. It is one of the most cost-effective antihypertensive medications available and is covered by virtually all insurance plans.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions about a medical condition or medication.
This medication is commonly used to treat or manage the following conditions:
Atrial fibrillation, a common arrhythmia characterized by rapid, irregular heartbeats, increases risk of stroke and heart failure, often linked to age, hypertension, and heart disease.
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder marked by inattention, hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity, stemming from complex interactions between genetics, brain differences, and environmental factors, not poor parenting.
Hives (urticaria) are itchy, raised welts caused by histamine release, triggered by allergens, physical stimuli, medications, infections, stress, or sometimes, unknown factors.
Osteoarthritis, a common degenerative joint disease, causes pain, stiffness, and reduced motion due to cartilage breakdown from aging, genetics, obesity, injuries, or repetitive stress.
Portal hypertension, an elevated pressure in the portal vein due to blockage often from cirrhosis or other pre-hepatic causes, can lead to serious complications like bleeding and ascites.
Secondary pulmonary hypertension, unlike its primary form, arises from underlying conditions such as heart/lung disease, blood clots, or connective tissue disorders, increasing lung artery pressure.
A stroke, caused by interrupted brain blood supply from blockage (ischemic) or bleeding (hemorrhagic), is a medical emergency requiring prompt treatment to minimize brain damage.
Vertigo, a spinning sensation distinct from dizziness, often stems from inner ear or brain issues like BPPV or Meniere's, sometimes triggered by head trauma or medication.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. Your doctor can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific health condition and medical history.
Other medications in the same category
Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about whether Lisinopril is right for you.
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