Lisinopril: Your Heart’s Helping Hand
A trusted ACE inhibitor to manage blood pressure and protect your heart
What is Lisinopril?
Lisinopril is a prescription medicine that belongs to the ACE inhibitor family. It works by relaxing blood vessels, which helps blood flow more smoothly. This reduces the strain on your heart and lowers blood pressure.
Uses of Lisinopril
Lisinopril is used to:
- Control high blood pressure (Hypertension)
- Support heart health after a heart attack
- Manage heart failure
- Protect your kidneys if you have diabetes with high blood pressure
Dosage: How Much Should You Take?
Your doctor will decide the exact dose, but typical doses include:
For high blood pressure:
- Starting dose: 10mg once daily
- Maximum dose: Up to 40mg daily
For heart failure:
- Starting dose: 2.5mg to 5mg once daily
- Adjustments: Your doctor will gradually increase if needed.
After a heart attack:
- Day 1: 5mg within 24 hours
- Following days: 10mg daily, based on how your body responds
How to Take Lisinopril?
- Take it once a day — with or without food.
- Try to take it at the same time each day.
- Stay consistent — don’t skip doses, even if you feel fine.
Side Effects: What to Watch Out For
Lisinopril is generally well-tolerated, but some side effects can happen.
Common Side Effects:
- Dizziness
- Dry cough (this is a classic ACE inhibitor effect)
- Fatigue
- Nausea
Rare but Serious:
- Swelling of face, lips, or throat (a sign of angioedema)
- Severe dizziness or fainting
- High potassium levels (causing muscle weakness or abnormal heartbeat)
- Signs of kidney problems (less urination, swelling in legs)
Precautions: Who Should Be Careful?
Do NOT take Lisinopril if:
- You’re allergic to it or any ACE inhibitor.
- You’ve ever had angioedema.
- You’re pregnant — it can harm your baby.
Use with caution if:
- You have kidney disease or liver disease.
- You’re dehydrated or on diuretics.
- You’re taking potassium supplements or salt substitutes.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
- Pregnancy: Strictly avoided — can cause birth defects.
- Breastfeeding: Discuss with your doctor before use.
Drug Interactions: What to Avoid?
Lisinopril can interact with:
- Diuretics ("water pills")
- NSAIDs (like ibuprofen)
- Potassium supplements
- Other blood pressure meds
- Lithium (used for mood disorders)
Who Can Take Lisinopril?
- Adults with high blood pressure
- People recovering from heart attacks
- Patients with heart failure
- Diabetics who need kidney protection
Who Should Avoid It?
- Pregnant women
- People with a history of severe allergic reactions to ACE inhibitors
- Those with hereditary angioedema
Important Reminder
Always consult your doctor before starting or stopping lisinopril — especially if you have any medical conditions or take other medications.