Lisinopril is an angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. Angiotensin is a chemical producing by body continuously. It maintains (elevates) blood pressure by narrowing blood vessels. Angiotensin can not be converted into its active form, when Lisinopril blocks the enzyme. Thus, blood pressure falls.
Interesting fact: Lisinopril and other ACE inhibitors were developed from the poison of a venomous Brazilian snake.
Take the doses of Lisinopril exactly as your doctor directed. The medication may be taken with or without food. To maintain consistent blood levels make sure to take Lisinopril at the same time every day. Do not take Lisinopril within two hours of taking an antacid, because it binds Lisinopril and prevents it from absorption. Lisinoprine is often tapered when interrupting.
Make sure to take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is close to the time of your next dose. And then take only your regular dose according to the schedule. Do NOT take two doses at once.
Store Lisinopril at temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 – 30 degrees C), in a dry place.
Lisinopril Safety information
Lisinopril may cause drowsiness or dizziness, so please use maximum attention while driving, operating machinery, or performing other potentially dangerous activities. Avoid these activities in case if you experience dizziness or drowsiness, and notify your doctor about that. Also be careful when rising from a lying or sitting position. Avoid consuming alcoholic beverages while taking Lisinopril, because alcohol may increase dizziness and drowsiness. And also alcohol may further lower blood pressure and thereby increase dizziness and drowsiness while taking Lisinopril. Do not use potassium supplements or salt substitutes during the treatment with Lisinopril, except under your physician's supervision. Such causes of fluid loss as heavy sweating, diarrhea, vomiting and other, may lead to very low blood pressure, fainting and dizziness during treatment with Lisinopril. In order to prevent dehydration and related side effects, make sure to maintain proper fluid intake. If the patient is also taking diuretics (water pills), he should take the first doses of Lisinopril (or any ACE inhibitor) under doctor's observation. Blood pressure can drop quickly in such patients (though this is quite unusual). Blood potassium levels may rise to dangerous levels in case of combining Lisinopril with potassium supplements or diuretics that conserve potassium (e.g., Dyazide). Do not take Lisinopril during pregnancy.
Taking of first dozes of Lisinopril may cause dizziness because of a drop in blood pressure. Stop taking Lisinopril if you experience any symptoms or signs of an allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face, tongue, throat or lips. Hives and severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) may occur occasionally.
Among other side effects there is one that is uncommon, but dangerous: drop in the white blood cells which fight infection. One more known side effect of Lisinopril is cough.
Every patient that is taking Lisinopril should check their kidney function, because this medication can diminish the function of kidneys. Less likely Lisinopril may cause headaches, anxiety, nausea, drowsiness, insomnia, sexual dysfunction and nasal congestion.
Lisinopril Side effects
Stop taking Lisinopril and contact your doctor or seek emergency medical attention immediately in case if you experience any of the listed below serious side effects:
- chest pain;
- difficulty breathing;
- an irregular heartbeat or changes in your heartbeat;
- an allergic reaction (closing of your throat; difficulty breathing; hives; swelling of your face, lips or tongue);
- little or no urine;
- signs of an infection (including a sore throat or a fever);
- severe dizziness or fainting.
Other side effects, that are less serious may be more likely to happen. Contact your doctor, but continue taking Lisinopril, if you experience any of the following side effects:
- headache;
- dry, tickling cough;
- a rash;
- mild dizziness or lightheadedness;
- unusual weakness or fatigue;
- muscle cramps;
- numbness or tingling in the hands, arms, feet or legs;
- nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea;
- impotence.
Other side effects, not listed here may also occur. Consult with your doctor in case if any side effect becomes especially bothersome, or seems unusual.
