Reviewed by Ashley Robinson, PharmD, Pharmacy Manager for TelyRx
Lisinopril is an oral medication belonging to the Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitor drug class that’s commonly prescribed as first-line treatment for managing hypertension (high blood pressure), treating heart failure, and reducing risk of further damage after a heart attack.
Most side effects are mild to moderate and temporary, but serious conditions can develop.
Lisinopril works to alleviate pressure in your cardiovascular system and help blood flow more freely through your arteries. This can lower blood pressure, and also aid with recovery for people with heart failure.
As blood pressure decreases, your body produces the angiotensin 1 protein, and the Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) in your kidneys and lungs converts angiotensin 1 into angiotensin 2. This conversion can cause blood pressure to increase by constricting blood vessels and trigger the release of aldosterone, a hormone that causes your body to retain a high concentration of sodium and water.
As an ACE inhibitor, lisinopril blocks ACE and prevents angiotensin 1 from being converted into angiotensin 2. By widening your blood vessels and reducing your sodium and water retention, lisinopril can lower your blood pressure and prevent excess strain on your heart.
| Common Brands | Zestril, Prinivil, Qbrelis |
| Drug Class | Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitor |
| Generic Status | Generic for Zestril |
| Availability | Prescription only |
Note: Dosing information below is educational only. Your prescribing physician will determine your specific dose based on your individual health needs.
Lisinopril is a prescription-only ACE inhibitor that typically comes in the form of an oral tablet. Prescriptions usually call for one dose per day, though dosage depends on the type of condition being treated and the patient’s age.
Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for exact dosing.
Lisinopril is FDA-approved to treat hypertension, heart failure, and post-myocardial infarction (heart attack). For patients with hypertension, lisinopril may be used as standalone medication or as part of a combined regimen that also includes diuretics and other types of anti-hypertensive drugs.
You may see Lisinopril prescribed for uses that are not “FDA-approved.” This is a very common and legal practice called “off-label” prescribing, where a doctor uses their clinical judgment to prescribe a drug for a different (but well-researched) purpose.
As with any new medication, Lisinopril may cause side effects for first-time users. Most of these side effects have mild to moderate symptoms, and are often temporary. Common side effects of lisinopril include:
Serious side effects are rare, but it’s important to know what to look for if they do occur.
Since lisinopril has a major effect on your body, particularly the vascular system, serious side effects can occur. These include:
Call your doctor immediately if you experience any concerning or prolonged symptoms.
Lisinopril interacts with various types of other medication. Most of these interactions have a bearing on your body’s potassium levels and kidney function. Known lisinopril interactions include:
Always give your doctor and pharmacist a complete list of all your medications, vitamins, and supplements to check for potential interactions.
What are the side effects of lisinopril?
Common side effects of taking lisinopril include a persistent dry and non-productive cough, dizziness or lightheadedness, a mild to moderate headache, and hypotension (low blood pressure). More serious side effects can include severe allergic reaction, kidney and liver damage, and high potassium levels in the bloodstream.
Why can lisinopril cause a persistent cough?
Lisinopril causes a persistent cough by inhibiting Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) activity. ACE not only converts angiotensin I protein to angiotensin II protein, but also breaks down a substance called bradykinin that builds up in the lungs and causes irritation. Reduced ACE function potentially means a greater buildup of bradykinin in the lungs and elevated risk of a persistent dry and non-productive cough.
Which foods should I avoid while taking lisinopril?
There are no serious food indications associated with lisinopril, but it is recommended to avoid foods with high potassium or sodium content.
Can I use salt substitutes while on lisinopril?
No, it is not recommended to use substitutes while taking lisinopril. Salt substitutes are rich in potassium chloride, so taking in tandem with lisinopril can cause excessively high potassium levels.
What is the best time of day to take lisinopril?
Based on the latest medical research, you can take lisinopril any time of day you wish. Consistently taking the drug each day is more crucial to your long-term treatment than timing your doses. Most people do not need to take their dose with food, so there’s no need to plan on taking lisinopril around mealtimes.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking lisinopril?
With drinking alcohol, it is recommended to proceed with caution if you’re also taking lisinopril. Alcoholic beverages can lower blood pressure and cause dizziness, so lisinopril can compound these side effects. Talk to your doctor about your daily alcohol consumption to see if lisinopril is right for you.
How long does it take for lisinopril to lower blood pressure?
Most people who take lisinopril notice a drop in blood pressure within 1 to 6 hours after their first dose. However, it can take up to 4 weeks for the medication to fully lower and stabilize your blood pressure levels.
What happens if I stop taking lisinopril suddenly?
If you stop taking lisinopril suddenly, you may experience a sudden and severe increase in blood pressure. This is especially true if you’re taking lisinopril to treat hypertension or heart failure. It is not advised to stop taking lisinopril without permission from your doctor.
Can lisinopril affect my kidney function?
Yes, lisinopril can affect your kidney function. The medication is designed to improve kidney function, especially for people with diabetes, but it can also cause acute kidney injury. By monitoring your creatine levels during treatment, your doctor can determine if the lisinopril is negatively affecting your kidney function.
What is the difference between lisinopril and losartan?
Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor, so it blocks the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II proteins. Losartan is an ARB, which blocks angiotensin II activity. Both medications essentially achieve the same end through different means, though losartan is less likely than lisinopril to cause a persistent dry and non-productive cough.
Does lisinopril cause weight gain?
Lisinopril is not associated with excessive weight gain. If you gain weight while taking lisinopril, this may be due to edema, or fluid retention, related to heart failure. Talk to your doctor about the next steps.
Can lisinopril cause hair loss?
Hair loss is not a common side effect of taking lisinopril. That said, each medication can have different side effects for different people. Talk to your doctor if you notice hair loss while taking lisinopril.
What should I do if I miss a dose of lisinopril?
If you miss your daily lisinopril dose, don’t panic – it is advised to simply take the dose as soon as you remember. If more than a day has elapsed, it is recommended skip the missed dose and resume your daily regimen. It is not advised to “double-dose,” or take two doses at once to make up for the missed dose.
Can lisinopril cause erectile dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction is not a common side effect of taking lisinopril. In fact, by increasing blood flow, the drug can improve circulation and overall vascular health.
Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor often used as first-line treatment for high blood pressure, heart failure, and symptoms after myocardial infarction. Here’s how it compares to a few lisinopril alternatives:
Important: Information on this page is for educational purposes only. Prescribing decisions are made by independent, licensed providers. TelyRx operates technology-enabled pharmacies and a telehealth platform that connects patients with board-certified licensed providers. Prescriptions, when provider-approved and issued, are filled and shipped by TelyRx-affiliated pharmacies. We do not employ physicians or make prescribing decisions.
