Lisinopril: Safe Dosing and Common Side Effects

Hello and welcome to "VideoScript", presented by Drugs.com.

Today in the second of three presentations, we continue reviewing lisinopril, a commonly used medication in the class of drugs known as angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, or ACE inhibitors. We will look at issues surrounding dosing and side effects.

Lisinopril helps to control high blood pressure and heart failure, and may be used after a heart attack. Lisinopril has been FDA-approved for use in both adults and children 6 years of age and older.

Lisinopril is not a cure for high blood pressure or heart failure; it is used to control these conditions. Therefore, lisinopril is taken every day, unless otherwise directed.

Lisinopril comes in an oral tablet, and is given once a day. It may be taken with or without food. Doses may be started at the lower end of the dosing range and slowly increased to monitor for effectiveness and side effects

Reduced doses of lisinopril are needed in both adults and children with impaired kidney function. A blood test to evaluate kidney function may be needed at the beginning of treatment.

Most patients tolerate lisinopril very well. Some of the more common side effects may include abnormally low blood pressure, dizziness or fainting. If these should occur, a health care provider should be notified.

Lisinopril may also cause nausea, headache and a persistent, dry cough. Cough is a well-known side effect of all ACE inhibitors, and reverses when the drug is stopped. If the cough is bothersome, patients should contact their health care provider before stopping treatment.

Thank you for joining us at Drugs.com for a brief review of lisinopril. Please refer to our patient and professional information, drug interaction checker, and additional tools on Drugs.com.

Patients with a concern about the use of lisinopril should consult with their health care provider.

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