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Brand Name: Prinivil; Zestril
Generic Name: Lisinopril
(Lyse in' oh pril)
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Important Warning:Do not take lisinopril if you are pregnant. If you become pregnant while taking lisinopril, call your doctor immediately. Lisinopril may harm the fetus.
Why is lisinopril prescribed?
Prinivil, Zestril (Lisinopril) is used alone or in combination with other medications to treat high blood pressure. It is used in combination with other medications to treat heart failure. Lisinopril is also used to improve survival after a heart attack. Prinivil (Zestril) is in a class of medications called angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It works by decreasing certain chemicals that tighten the blood vessels, so blood flows more smoothly and the heart can pump blood more efficiently.
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How should lisinopril be used properly?
Lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril) comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day. To help you remember to take lisinopril, take it around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take lisinopril exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Your doctor will probably start you on a low dose of lisinopril and gradually increase your dose.
Lisinopril controls high blood pressure and heart failure but does not cure them. Continue to take lisinopril even if you feel well. Do not stop taking lisinopril without talking to your doctor.
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What are the common uses for lisinopril?
This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
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What special precautions should I follow when using lisinopril?
Before taking lisinopril,
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to lisinopril, enalapril (Vasotec), benazepril (Lotensin), captopril (Capoten), fosinopril (Monopril), moexipril (Univasc), perindopril (Aceon), quinapril (Accupril), ramipril (Altace), trandolapril (Mavik), or any other medications.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking. Be sure to mention any of the following: aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) such as indomethacin (Indocin); diuretics ('water pills'); lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid); and potassium supplements. Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart or kidney disease; diabetes; lupus; scleroderma; or angioedema, a condition that causes difficulty swallowing or breathing and painful swelling of the the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs.
- tell your doctor if you plan to become pregnant or are breast-feeding.
- if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking lisinopril.
- you should know that diarrhea, vomiting, not drinking enough fluids, and sweating a lot can cause a drop in blood pressure, which may cause lightheadedness and fainting.
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What special dietary instructions should I follow while taking lisinopril?
Talk to your doctor before using salt substitutes containing potassium. If your doctor prescribes a low-salt or low-sodium diet, follow these directions carefully.
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What should I do if I forget a dose of lisinopril?
You should take the missed dose of lisinopril just as soon as you remember to take it. Unless, it is almost time for the next dose, then skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Never take a double dose of your medication to make up for a missed one.
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What side effects can lisinopril cause?
Lisinopril may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
- decrease in sexual ability
- excessive tiredness
- upset stomach
- runny nose
- weakness
- dizziness
- headache
- sneezing
- diarrhea
- cough
- rash
Some side effects can be serious. The following symptoms are uncommon, but if you experience any of them, call your doctor immediately:
- swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- fever, sore throat, chills, and other signs of infection
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- lightheadedness
- hoarseness
- chest pain
- fainting
Lisinopril may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication.
» topWhat storage conditions are needed for lisinopril?
Always keep the lisinopril in the same container it came in. Make sure it is tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store this medication at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture; do not store this medication in the bathroom.
Always be sure to dispose of any medication that is no longer needed or outdated. Be sure to ask your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
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What do I do in case of emergency or an lisinopril overdose?
In case of an accutane overdose, be sure to call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim is not breathing or has collapsed, dial 911 for local emergency services.
Symptoms of overdose may include:
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What other information should I know about lisinopril?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your blood pressure should be checked regularly to determine your response to lisinopril. Your doctor may order certain lab tests to check your body's response to lisinopril.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
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This document is provided for information only. It is not a substitute for consultation with a physician, either to diagnose symptoms or prescribe treatment. Any dosages mentioned are general guidelines only; please follow the directions of your doctor or pharmacist exactly when taking medication. We have made every effort to ensure that this information is accurate, but only your doctor can say if a medication, or drug combination, is safe for you. Information intended for US residents only.
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