Lisinopril-hydrochlorothiazide, or Lisinopril-HCTZ, is a combination of two drugs used to lower blood pressure, according to MedLibrary.org. Hydrochlorothiazide lowers blood pressure by helping the body eliminate salt and water from the tissues, and lisinopril prevents formation of a substance that constricts blood vessels, according to Mayoclinic.com. This medication can also be used for congestive heart failure, and to help prevent damage to the kidneys caused by diabetes.
Common Side Effects
Drugs.com points out that side effects of this drug are generally mild and temporary, with the most common being dizziness, headache and cough. Users may experience fatigue, as well. These symptoms diminish as the body gets used to the medication, according to RXList.com. Increased hunger, sensitivity to sunlight, anxiety or depression, rash, and increased sweating are some additional common side effects of lisinopril-HCTZ.
Serious Side Effects
Swelling, numbness and tingling in the hands and feet, dry mouth, fainting, muscle and joint aches, muscle cramps, a fast, slow or irregular heart beat, and extreme thirst, are more serious side effects that should be brought to you doctor's attention right away, says RxList.com.
Rare Side Effects
The following require immediate medical attention, according to RxList.com: yellow eyes or skin, severe stomach or abdominal pain, persistent nausea and vomiting, bleeding or easy bruising, fever, chills, persistent sore throat or seizures. While an increase in urine output is normal when first starting lisinopril-HCTZ, an unusual change in the amount of urine should be reported to a doctor. Swelling, especially in the face, tongue or throat, or abdominal pain may signal an adverse event called angioedema.
Allergic Reaction
RxList.com states that, although rare, serious allergic reactions can occur. Itching, swelling and rash, extreme dizziness and trouble breathing, are symptoms that require swift medical attention.
Contraindications
Medlibrary.org reports that this medication is known to cause harm and even death to the developing fetus when used during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy.
Caution should be used with lisinopril-HCTZ in both the elderly and those with kidney impairment, as they may have greater risk of toxic reactions, reports Drugs.com
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