Lisinopril HCl is a prescription medication classified as an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. It is approved by the Food and Drug Association (FDA) for the treatment of hypertension and congestive heart failure (CHF). It also approved for use after a heart attack to help improve survival. Lisinopril works by blocking the action of a chemical called angiotensin; angiotensin constricts blood vessels and increases blood pressure. Lisinopril inhibits this action and thereby reduces blood pressure. Many side effects are associated with the administration of lisinopril.
Common Side Effects
The many common side effects of lisinopril include nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhea. Eating small, frequent meals or chewing gum may help with these adverse reactions. About 4 percent of people experience headache and fatigue with this drug. Dizziness or light-headedness is a major side effect that up to 12 percent of people may experience when they begin taking it. Patients on lisinopril should use caution when operating a vehicle or heavy machinery or engaging in activities that require alertness.
Cough
Lisinopril blocks the breakdown of a chemical called bradykinin. A buildup of bradykinin in the body can produce a dry cough. This occurs in about 7 percent of people and requires a switch to another drug. Upper respiratory tract infections may occur in up to 2 percent of individuals.
Hypotension
Lisinopril may adversely affect the blood pressure. Hypotension, or low blood pressure, can be seen in about 1 to 4 percent of people on this drug. It is seen in a higher percentage, about 5.3 percent, in people with heart failure. Orthostatic hypotension, a rapid drop in blood pressure upon standing, occurs in about 1 percent of people. The elderly and persons with heart failure are more likely to experience orthostatic hypotension.
Hyperkalemia
Lisinopril causes sodium and water to be released from the body, and in exchange potassium is kept inside. This may lead to accumulation of potassium in the body, called hyperkalemia. Hyperkalemia can occur in up to 5 percent of individuals. People who have diabetes or chronic kidney disease, or those on potassium supplements, are more likely to experience this side effect. Fast or uneven heartbeat and muscle tightness or spasms may be symptoms of hyperkalemia and require medical attention.
Changes in Renal Function
Changes in renal function that occur with lisinopril may occur initially but decrease as the body adjusts to the medication. BUN (blood urea nitrogen) and serum creatinine, two measures of renal function, may be increased in about 2 percent of people. After about two to four weeks, levels may return to normal. Individuals with low renal blood flow are more at risk at developing acute renal failure, including people with heart failure and preexisting kidney disease.
Angioedema
The ACE inhibitors have the potential to cause a serious side effect called angioedema. Angioedema results in swelling of the tongue, lips, and throat. Though it occurs in less than 1 percent of people, it is a life-threatening emergency, requiring medical attention.
References
- "Drug Information Handbook, 15th Edition;" Charles F. Lacy, R.Ph., Pharm.D., et al.; 2007
- "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach;" Joseph T. Dipiro et al.; 2008
- Drug Information Online: Lisinopril
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