Lisinopril

Blood pressure

Also known as Zestril, Prinivil

Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor. It blocks a hormone that tightens blood vessels, letting them relax and widen. That lowers your blood pressure and takes strain off your heart and kidneys. High blood pressure usually has no symptoms, so the medicine is protecting you even when you feel no different.

How to take it

When

Once a day, same time every day.

Food

With or without food.

Avoid

Potassium supplements and "lite" salt substitutes unless your doctor approves — this medicine already raises potassium. Regular use of ibuprofen or naproxen can also work against it.

Getting started

The first doses can make you dizzy. Stand up slowly for the first few days.

Missed a dose?

Take it as soon as you remember, unless your next dose is close. Never double up.

Common side effects

A dry, tickly cough — the classic one. If it bugs you, your doctor can switch you to a similar medicine without it
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Headache

Call a doctor if

Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat — this is an emergency, call for help immediately
Fainting
Very little or no urination

Educational only. This summary is drawn from public FDA labeling and MedlinePlus and simplified for readability. Your prescription label and your pharmacist always come first — doses and instructions vary from person to person.