Lisinopril — Uses, Side Effects, Dosing, and Safety

Lisinopril is a common blood pressure medicine called an ACE inhibitor. Doctors use it to treat high blood pressure and heart failure, and sometimes after a heart attack to protect the heart. It lowers blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels so your heart does not have to work as hard.

How it works

Lisinopril blocks the angiotensin converting enzyme, which reduces a hormone that tightens blood vessels. This makes arteries wider and lowers blood pressure. The effect usually starts in a few hours and builds over days to weeks.

Typical dosing. Adults often start at 5 to 10 mg once a day for high blood pressure. Your doctor may increase the dose slowly up to 20 or 40 mg once daily based on response. For heart failure or after a heart attack, doses and timing may differ — follow your prescriber's instructions.

Common side effects. The most reported side effects are cough, dizziness, headache, and tiredness. A dry, persistent cough can occur and may lead some people to switch to a different medicine. Serious but rare effects include swelling of the face or throat (angioedema) and low blood pressure.

What to watch for

Check your blood pressure and report lightheadedness or fainting. If you get swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, seek emergency care. Also tell your doctor if you have a history of kidney disease, high potassium levels, or previous angioedema.

Drug interactions and labs. Lisinopril can increase potassium, so avoid potassium supplements or salt substitutes with potassium unless your doctor says it's safe. Combining lisinopril with NSAIDs can reduce its effect and harm the kidneys. Your doctor will check kidney function and electrolytes, usually a few weeks after starting or changing dose.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding. Lisinopril can harm a baby during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, do not take lisinopril. Talk to your doctor about safer options before trying to conceive. If you breastfeed, discuss risks with your prescriber.

Practical tips. Take lisinopril at the same time each day, with or without food. If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless it is near the next dose — do not double up. Avoid driving or heavy tasks until you know how it affects you.

Buying and refills. Always use a reputable pharmacy and keep prescriptions current. If you buy medicines online, choose licensed pharmacies that require a prescription and show contact information. Save lab results and keep a list of your medicines to share with your health team.

Questions to ask your doctor. Ask how long before you see a benefit, what side effects to expect, when to check blood tests, and if lisinopril interacts with your other drugs. Clear answers help you use lisinopril safely and confidently.

Follow up regularly. Most people need a blood test within one to two weeks after starting or changing dose, then every six to twelve months. Keep an updated medication list for every health visit annually.