Lisinopril is a medication that belongs to the ACE inhibitor family. It’s mainly used to lower high blood pressure and to help the heart after a heart attack. By relaxing blood vessels, it makes it easier for blood to flow, which reduces the strain on your heart.
The drug blocks an enzyme called ACE, which normally narrows blood vessels. When that enzyme is blocked, the vessels stay wider, and your blood pressure drops. This simple action can also improve kidney function in people with diabetes, because the kidneys benefit from lower pressure.
Doctors often prescribe lisinopril as a first‑line treatment for hypertension because it’s cheap, works well, and is taken once a day. It can also be part of a combination therapy with other blood‑pressure drugs if a single pill isn’t enough.
Most people take lisinopril in the morning, but the exact timing isn’t critical as long as you’re consistent. If you’re prone to dizziness, taking it at night might help you avoid that feeling during the day. Always follow what your doctor tells you.
Do not skip doses without checking with a healthcare provider. Missing a dose can cause a sudden rise in blood pressure, which might feel like a headache or light‑headedness. If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for the next one—then just skip the missed one.
It’s important to keep regular appointments so your doctor can check your blood pressure and adjust the dose if needed. Blood pressure goals can change over time, especially if you develop other health issues.
Like any medication, lisinopril can cause side effects. The most common are a dry cough, dizziness, and headache. A dry cough can be annoying, but it usually isn’t dangerous. If it bothers you a lot, talk to your doctor—sometimes switching to a different ACE inhibitor or an ARB can help.
Serious side effects are rare but worth watching for. If you notice swelling in your face, lips, tongue, or throat, that could be an allergic reaction and you need medical help right away. Also, watch for a sudden drop in kidney function; your doctor will monitor this with blood tests.
Staying hydrated, getting up slowly from sitting or lying down, and avoiding salty foods can reduce dizziness and help the medicine work better. If you’re on a low‑sodium diet, you’ll often see better blood‑pressure results.
Remember, lisinopril works best when paired with lifestyle changes—like regular exercise, a balanced diet, and limiting alcohol. Combining these habits with your prescription gives you the best chance of keeping blood pressure in check.
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