Lisinopril is medication available as prescription only and is used in the treatment of hypertension and as an add-on for congestive heart failure (CHF). It may also improve survival in people who have had a myocardial infarction (heart attack). Lisinopril is an angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, which is a group of drugs that lower blood pressure by blocking the actions of angiotensin. Angiotensin, a chemical produced by the body, narrows blood vessels and raises the blood pressure; Lisinopril will not allow this chemical to activate. Lisinopril is working on the body and there are many expected side effects.
Common Side Effects
Many common side effects can occur with the administration of Lisinopril. Nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain can be present in about 2 percent of people and diarrhea has been seen in up to 4 percent of people. Dizziness and lightheadedness are major side effects and can occur in about 12 percent of individuals. If these symptoms occur, use caution when driving or engaging in any activity that requires alertness. In about 4 percent of people, headache and fatigue are also common but may decrease as the body adjusts to the medication.
Hypotension
Lowering of blood pressure is not uncommon with Lisinopril. Low blood pressure, or hypotension, may occur in up to 4 percent of people. In heart failure, it is more common and seen in up to 5.3 percent of people. Orthostatic hypotension is a rapid drop in blood pressure upon standing too quickly. About 1 percent of people experience orthostatic hypotension but occurs more commonly in the elderly and individuals with heart failure.
Cough
Lisinopril prevents the breakdown of a chemical called bradykinin leading to its accumulation in the body. This may lead to a persistent dry cough in up to 9 percent of individuals and a switch to another medication is necessary. In about 2 percent of people, upper respiratory tract infections will be common.
Hyperkalemia
Hyperkalemia, which is an increased potassium level in the body, may be seen with Lisinopril, particularly in patients with chronic renal failure or diabetes. People on potassium supplements or medications that can also increase potassium are more at risk for hyperkalemia. It can occur in about 2 to 5 percent of individuals and is displayed as fast or even heartbeat or muscle tightness or spasms. If you experience these symptoms, contact you doctor immediately.
Changes in Renal Function
Lisinopril may causes changes in renal function upon initiation or dose increase. BUN (blood urea nitrogen) and serum creatinine are measures of renal function that may be increased in up to 2 percent of individuals. The levels usually return to normal after 2 or 4 weeks when the body has adjusted to the medication. Acute renal failure can occur in individuals who have low renal blood flow, such as those with heart failure and preexisting renal disease.
Angioedema
ACE inhibitors such as Lisinopril may cause a life threatening side effect called angioedema, characterized by swelling of the tongue, lips and throat. It occurs in less that 1 percent of individuals but requires immediate medical attention.
References
- "Drug Information Handbook 15th Edition"; Charles F. Lacy, RPh, PharmD, FCSHP, Lora L. Armstrong, RPh, PharmD, BCPS. et al; 2007
- "Pharmacotherapy: A Pathophysiologic Approach"; Joseph T. Dipiro, Robert L. Talbert, et al; 2008
- Drug Information Online: Lisinopril
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