Lisinopril is an angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor that is used to treat high blood pressure, or hypertension, states the Mayo Clinic. An ACE inhibitor works by reducing chemical substances that cause blood vessel constriction, and thus, an increase in blood pressure. This medication is also used to manage heart failure or to improve survival after a heart attack, states Drugs.com. Lisinopril may be used over the long-term to treat high blood pressure. As with all medications, long-term use can increase the risk of side effects.
Dry Cough
ACE inhibitors, including lisinopril, may cause a dry cough when used over the long-term. Dr. Peter Dicpinigaitis in the Jan. 2006 issue of "Chest" reports that dry cough is a long-term side effect reported in five to 35 percent of patients using lisinopril. Iron supplement may be a remedy for a dry cough, according to a 2001 article in the "British Medical Journal." Therefore, a doctor may prescribe this supplement to reduce this side effect.
Drowsiness
Lisinopril may cause long-term drowsiness, according to Drugs.com. This occurs because lisinopril may affect the chemical signals in the area of the brain that keep you awake and alert. Therefore, a patient taking lisinopril should use caution when driving or operating heavy machinery until he knows how his body reacts to lisinopril. If his body does not adjust to the affects of lisinopril, he may request a different long-term medication from his physician to avoid this side effect.
Irregular Heart Rate
Drugs.com states that lisinopril may cause an irregular heart rate. This occurs because lisinopril can affect the muscle and blood vessels around the heart, which can cause a fast, pounding or irregular heartbeat. An irregular heart rate may also cause dizziness or lightheadedness. A patient who is experiencing these symptoms should seek immediate medical treatment from his doctor. It will be necessary for the doctor to determine if these effects are caused by lisinopril, or if they are related to another medical condition.
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