Lisinopril: what you need to know

If your doctor mentioned lisinopril, you probably want plain answers: what it does, how to take it, and what to watch for. Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor commonly used to lower blood pressure and help people with heart failure. It’s cheap, effective, and widely prescribed — but it does need a little attention when you start or change doses.

How lisinopril works and who should take it

Lisinopril relaxes blood vessels by blocking an enzyme that tightens them. That lowers blood pressure and reduces the heart’s workload. Doctors prescribe it for high blood pressure, after a heart attack, and for some cases of heart failure. Typical adult doses for hypertension start around 10 mg once daily and often range up to 40 mg once daily. For heart failure or older adults, doctors may start lower (2.5–5 mg) and increase slowly. If you have kidney problems, your prescriber will usually lower the dose and monitor labs more closely.

Side effects, interactions, and practical tips

Most people tolerate lisinopril well, but expect a few possible side effects. A dry cough is common and can appear weeks after starting. Dizziness or lightheadedness can happen, especially after the first dose — standing up slowly helps. Rare but serious effects include high potassium levels and angioedema (swelling around the face or throat). Stop the medicine and get emergency care if your face or throat swells.

Interactions matter. Don’t combine lisinopril with potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics without close monitoring — potassium can rise dangerously. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can blunt its effect and may affect kidney function. If you take diuretics, blood pressure may drop too quickly when lisinopril is added; your doctor may adjust doses.

Labs and follow-up: check kidney function and potassium within 1–2 weeks of starting or changing dose, then periodically after. If creatinine rises more than 30% or potassium is high, your doctor will reassess treatment. Also avoid lisinopril in pregnancy — it can harm the fetus — and tell any provider you’re taking it before surgery or new prescriptions are started.

Practical tips that help: take lisinopril at the same time each day (many prefer evening to reduce dizziness), stay hydrated but avoid sudden large drops in salt intake, and keep a list of symptoms to report (severe cough, swelling, fainting). If side effects are bothersome, there are alternatives like ARBs or other blood pressure classes; discuss options with your clinician.

Want more on related meds or safe online buying? We cover beta-blockers, diuretics, potassium risks with spironolactone, and how to choose a trustworthy online pharmacy on this site. If you’re unsure about dosing or interactions, make an appointment with your prescriber — small changes can make a big difference in safety and results.