Lisinopril is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs called angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It is commonly prescribed for the treatment of high blood pressure, heart failure, and certain types of kidney disease. Lisinopril works by relaxing the blood vessels, allowing the blood to flow more easily, which helps to lower blood pressure.
If you have been prescribed lisinopril or are considering it, it is important to understand how it works and what to expect. Talk to your healthcare provider to see if lisinopril is right for you.
Uses and benefits of Lisinopril
Lisinopril is a medication primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), heart failure, and to improve survival after a heart attack. It belongs to a class of medications called ACE inhibitors, which work by relaxing blood vessels and reducing the workload on the heart.
In addition to treating high blood pressure, Lisinopril has other benefits. It can help protect the kidneys in patients with diabetes, as it helps to reduce proteinuria (excess protein in the urine) and slow down the progression of kidney disease. Lisinopril is also used in the management of congestive heart failure, as it can improve symptoms and prevent hospitalizations.
Moreover, Lisinopril is prescribed to patients who have had a heart attack, as it reduces the risk of death or developing heart failure. It is also used in certain cases to prevent migraines and treat diabetic neuropathy.
It’s important to note that Lisinopril is a prescription medication, and it should only be taken under the supervision of a healthcare professional. They will determine the appropriate dosage and duration of treatment based on individual needs and medical history.
If you have any questions or concerns about the uses and benefits of Lisinopril, it’s best to consult with your doctor or pharmacist for personalized advice.
How Lisinopril works
Lisinopril belongs to a class of drugs called ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) inhibitors. It works by relaxing the blood vessels, which helps to lower blood pressure and improve blood flow.
When you take Lisinopril, the medication inhibits the production of an enzyme that converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II. Angiotensin II is a hormone that narrows the blood vessels and increases blood pressure. By blocking the action of angiotensin II, Lisinopril helps to widen the blood vessels and allow blood to flow more easily throughout the body.
Lisinopril also helps to reduce the amount of water and salt in the body, which can further lower blood pressure. This additional effect helps to relieve the strain on the heart and improve its efficiency.
Overall, Lisinopril works to lower blood pressure and improve blood flow, which can help to prevent or treat conditions such as hypertension, heart failure, and kidney problems.
Dosage and administration of Lisinopril
Before starting Lisinopril, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate dosage for your specific condition.
Dosage
Lisinopril is available in tablet form and is typically taken once a day. The dosage can vary depending on the individual’s age, medical history, and the severity of the condition being treated.
The usual starting dose for adults is 10 mg taken orally once a day. The dose may be increased over time based on the individual’s response to the medication. The maximum recommended dose is 40 mg per day.
For pediatric patients, the dosage is based on weight. The usual starting dose for children weighing less than 50 kg is 0.07 mg/kg once daily, up to a maximum dose of 5 mg. For children weighing 50 kg or more, the usual starting dose is 5 mg once daily, up to a maximum dose of 40 mg.
Administration
Lisinopril should be taken at the same time each day, preferably in the morning. It can be taken with or without food, but it is recommended to take it consistently with respect to meals.
The tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablets as this may affect the way the medication is absorbed in the body.
If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered. However, if it is close to the time for the next dose, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule should be resumed. Taking a double dose to make up for a missed dose is not recommended.
It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and administration instructions provided by your healthcare professional to ensure the safe and effective use of Lisinopril. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to discuss them with your healthcare provider.
| Common side effects | Serious side effects |
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Side effects of Lisinopril
Lisinopril may cause some side effects in certain individuals. While most people who take Lisinopril do not experience any side effects, it is important to be aware of the potential risks.
Common Side Effects
Some common side effects of Lisinopril include:
| Side Effect | Description |
|---|---|
| Dizziness | A feeling of lightheadedness or unsteadiness |
| Cough | A dry, persistent cough |
| Headache | Head pain or discomfort |
| Fatigue | Feeling tired or weak |
Serious Side Effects
While rare, Lisinopril can cause some serious side effects that require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your healthcare provider right away:
- Severe dizziness or fainting
- Chest pain or tightness
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
It is important to note that this list is not exhaustive, and there may be other side effects associated with Lisinopril. If you have any concerns or questions about the side effects of Lisinopril, speak with your healthcare provider.
Precautions and interactions with Lisinopril
Before starting Lisinopril, it is important to inform your doctor of any allergies, especially to other ACE inhibitors, as Lisinopril belongs to this class of medication. It is also important to disclose any medical conditions you have, including kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes, and heart disease.
Lisinopril should not be taken during pregnancy as it may harm the unborn baby. It is recommended to use effective birth control while taking this medication. It is also not recommended to breastfeed while using Lisinopril.
Other medications, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, may interact with Lisinopril. It is important to inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking to avoid any potential interactions.
Some medications that may interact with Lisinopril include diuretics, potassium supplements, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), lithium, and certain medications used to treat diabetes. These are just a few examples, and there may be other medications that can interact with Lisinopril.
Taking Lisinopril with diuretics may increase the risk of low blood pressure. Potassium supplements, NSAIDs, and certain diabetes medications may increase the levels of potassium in the blood, potentially leading to serious side effects.
Your doctor will be able to determine if Lisinopril is the right medication for you based on your medical history and the potential interactions with other medications you are taking.