 LISINOPRIL (Prinivil, Zestril) is an antihypertensive (blood pressure lowering agent) known as an ACE inhibitor. Lisinopril controls high blood pressure (hypertension) by relaxing blood vessels; it is not a cure. High blood pressure levels can damage your kidneys, and may lead to a stroke or heart failure. Lisinopril also helps to treat patients with heart failure (heart does not pump strongly enough). Generic lisinopril tablets are available.
Special precautions
Tell your doctor:
- If you have any of these conditions; autoimmune disease (such as lupus), or suppressed immune function; previous swelling of the tongue, face, or lips with difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, or tightening of the throat (angioedema); bone marrow disease; heart or blood vessel disease; low blood pressure; kidney disease.
- If you are on a special diet, such as a low-salt diet; an unusual or allergic reaction to lisinopril, other ACE inhibitors, foods, dyes, or preservatives; pregnant or trying to get pregnant; breast-feeding.
- If you are taking other medicines
- If you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs.
Side effects
decreased amount of urine passed;
difficulty breathing, or difficulty swallowing;
dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting spells;
fast or uneven heart beat, palpitations, or chest pain;
fever or chills;
fever or chills;
numbness or tingling in your fingers or toes;
skin rash, itching;
swelling of your face, lips, or tongue
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention are change in taste; cough; headache; tiredness.
Check your blood pressure regularly while you are taking lisinopril.
You may get dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how lisinopril affects you. To avoid dizzy or fainting spells, do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older person. Alcohol can make you dizzier.
If you are going to have surgery, tell your doctor or health care professional that you are using lisinopril. Avoid salt substitutes or other foods or substances high in potassium salts.
Do not treat yourself for coughs, colds, or pain while you are using lisinopril without asking your health care professional for advice.
Keep all appointments with your doctor. Do not let anyone else to take your medicines.
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