Lisinopril

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

Adco-Zetomax, Lisinozide, Sinopren, Zemax, Zestril

Popular combinations:

Adco-Zetomax Co, Lisoretic, Lisozide, Zestoretic

Drug group:

ACE inhibitor and antihypertensive drug

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

Lisinopril is used in the treatment of:

• High blood pressure and heart failure
• After a heart attack - it reduces the risk of heart failure if taken long-term
• Diabetic nephropathy (kidney disease)

How does it work?

Lisinopril causes vasodilation by relaxing the muscles in blood vessel walls - this eases blood flow which reduces blood pressure

How should it be used?

Lisinopril can initially cause a rapid fall in blood pressure – for this reason the first dose is usually very small, and should be taken while lying down, preferably at bedtime.

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

• Hypertension: initially 5–10mg, increasing up to 80mg, taken once daily
• Heart failure: initially 5mg, increasing up to 35mg, taken once daily
• Prevention of further heart attacks: initially 5–5mg, up to 10mg, taken once daily
• Diabetic nephropathy: 5-20mg once daily

How quickly will it start to work?

Within 1–2 hours, several weeks for full beneficial effect.           
   

How long will the effects last?

12–24 hours               
             

When should I stop using it?

Do not stop taking the drug without consulting your doctor. 
                

Is it safe for prolonged use?

No problems expected, but you will need regular checks on potassium levels, white blood cell count, kidney function, and urine.

What are the possible side effects?

Lisinopril may cause minor side effects, which may be minimized by adjusting the dosage.

The following have been reported:

• More common: rash, persistent dry cough
• Less common: mouth sores/ulcers, sore throat, dizziness, fever
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: swelling of the mouth/lips, difficulty breathing

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: kidney/liver/heart problems, previous angioedema or allergic reaction to ACE inhibitors, current/planned pregnancy
• Other medicines: Potassium supplements, potassium-sparing diuretics, ciclosporin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), other antihypertensives, lithium, insulin, antidiabetic drugs
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not safe in pregnancy, safety not established in breastfeeding
• Children: Not recommended
• Over 60: Reduced dose may be necessary
• Driving and hazardous work: Caution, the drug can cause dizziness and fainting
• Alcohol: Avoid, may further reduce blood pressure
• Surgery and general anaesthetics: The drug may need to be stopped