Our complete guide to this widely prescribed drug, including its pros and cons and how to make the best decisions to manage hypertension.

Key takeaways:

• Lisinopril is prescribed to help manage high blood pressure (hypertension) and other conditions.
• Lisinopril helps reduce pressure on the heart, kidneys, and other organs.
• Some people may take lisinopril safely, while others may face risks based on medical history and/or concurrent medications.

High blood pressure is a global health issue affecting hundreds of millions of people that can significantly increase a person’s risk of having a heart attack or a stroke. Lisinopril (the generic name for Prinivil, Qbrelis and Zestril) is one of several kinds of drugs classified as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, which are mostly prescribed to manage the effects of high blood pressure but are also indicated for patients who have suffered heart failure.

ACE inhibitors act by blocking the production of the enzyme angiotensin 2, which releases a hormone that raises blood pressure while also narrowing the blood vessels. By limiting the production of angiotensin 2, lisinopril helps keep blood vessels open to allow easier blood flow. This reduces vascular strain and makes it easier for the heart to pump blood around the body.

The benefits and effectiveness of lisinopril

Lisinopril helps relieve stress on the heart, arteries, and blood vessels, all of which can be damaged by the long-term effects of high blood pressure. Lisinopril increases the supply of oxygen and blood to the heart while also protecting every other organ in the body (including the brain and kidneys) from the damaging effects of hypertension. 

Patients who’ve suffered heart failure or heart attack are often left with a weakened heart muscle. This can make it harder for the heart to pump blood. Lisinopril may be prescribed to make ongoing heart function as minimally stressful as possible. Lisinopril is a fast-acting drug that typically starts working within a few hours. However, it may take weeks or months for its full effects to be felt.

Lisinopril is sometimes used (often in tandem with a diuretic) to treat diabetes and nephropathy because it has been found to help protect the kidneys in some patients. This is not always the case, however. Some conditions, such as renal artery stenosis, may actually be worsened by lisinopril. It’s therefore vital to speak to your doctor about all possible side effects of this drug and any current health conditions you may have before taking it.

What are the side effects of lisinopril?

Common side effects of lisinopril include dizziness, headaches, cough, sneezing, runny nose, vomiting, and diarrhea. Other rare, but more serious side effects may require immediate medical attention. These include:

• swelling in various parts of the body, including the face, hands, and feet
• breathing difficulties
• chest pain
• yellowing skin or eyes
• fainting (which may result from fluid loss through diarrhea or vomiting)
• fever
• difficulty swallowing.

 Your doctor will want to closely monitor your condition if you have high blood pressure. Patients should also be proactive in reporting any adverse reactions or unusual symptoms to their healthcare provider.

Further precautions and considerations

Some people with high blood pressure should avoid lisinopril and pay close attention to its contraindications, particularly pregnant women. Lisinopril’s effects on the renin-angiotensin system may cause oligohydramnios – a disorder that decreases amniotic fluid volume, which can result in injury to the fetus. Women taking lisinopril will usually be advised to discontinue use if they’re attempting to have a baby or discover they are pregnant. 

You should also consult with your doctor if you intend to breastfeed while on lisinopril. While there are no conclusive studies as to possible negative outcomes during breastfeeding, the UK-based National Health Service (NHS) acknowledges a small risk that lisinopril may be passed to the baby via breast milk, which can in turn lower the baby’s blood pressure. The NHS also notes that neonates and infants younger than two months face the greatest risk from secondary exposure to ACE inhibitors.

Any patients with a prior sensitivity to ACE blockers may also be unable to take lisinopril. While some calcium channel blockers and diuretics can be taken alongside lisinopril, other medications and substances are known to react negatively with it including sacubitril, valsartan, and aliskiren.

Further interference may be caused if the patient is already taking:

• vitamin and/or herbal supplements
• aspirin
• nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• insulin
• potassium supplements
• lithium

There are many other medications that may cause complications when taken with lisinopril. Talk to your doctor about your current medications and medical history, particularly if you have or have had any heart, kidney, or liver issues. Your doctor may also recommend avoiding alcohol and tobacco while on lisinopril, as they may also produce adverse effects.

Patients taking lisinopril should also inform other healthcare providers before undergoing any form of surgery, including dental surgery. Seniors should be more cautious when considering lisinopril due to the aging process naturally weakening their heart and kidneys; a fact that could increase some of lisinopril’s risks.

How ModRN Health can help

Lisinopril is often prescribed for long-term use, which can make it difficult to afford, especially if a condition related to high blood pressure is serious enough to limit a patient’s income opportunities. Being able to find lisinopril at the best possible prices can help reduce the stress of ongoing medical expenses.

Our service helps you save up to 90% on the cost of many different brand name and generic drugs, including lisinopril. We can help you find the best prices at the pharmacies closest to you, so you don’t have to go far to save money. And with the convenient ModRN Health app, you can search for prescription savings anytime from anywhere, making the process even easier.

Plus, our regularly updated knowledge base offers helpful information on a wide range of health conditions, including tips for managing hypertension through medications, lifestyle changes, and delicious dietary options. 

And the best part? It’s all completely free. Just visit our website to sign up for a free account today to start taking the stress of pharmacy visits!