Zestril (LISINOPRIL)
What is the brand name for this medicine?
ZESTRIL
What is this medicine used for?
Lisinopril is used for treatment of high blood pressure, the drug is also approved for treatment of heart failure in those patients who do not respond adequately to digitalis and diuretics. It is also used to treat acute myocardial infarction (MI) within 24 hours of the heart attack, to improve survival rates.
How is this medicine used?
By preventing a chemical reaction that creates constriction of blood vessels, lisinopril causes the body to retain less sodium and fluids. The net result is that ACE inhibitors relax arteries to lower blood pressure.
What if I miss a dose?
Take your next dose as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double doses.
How is this medicine stored?
Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container. Keep away from heat and light.
Are there side effects?
Possible side effects from lisinopril include headache, dizziness (in the 5 to 11 % range), cough, low blood pressure, fatigue, and a low incidence of impotence, ringing of the ears, and arthralgia or joint pain. Also listed as possibilities are skin rash, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Are there precautions with this medicine?
Precautions while taking lisinopril include the possibility of increased potassium levels (about 2% of patients), and photosensitivity (wear protective clothing or use sunscreens until tolerance is determined). Caution must be exercised in patients with impaired kidney function, since clearance of the drug may be decreased, leading to overdosage problems.
Can I take this medicine if I’m pregnant or breast-feeding?
Lisinopril should not be used during pregnancy due to the possibility of fetal damage. Several ACE inhibitors have been detected in breast milk, though it is not yet known whether lisinopril is excreted in breast milk. General caution should be observed while breast-feeding.
Does this medicine interact with other drugs?
Drug interactions with lisinopril are possible. Included are antacids and indomethacin, both of which can decrease the blood pressure lowering effect of lisinopril; phenothiazine tranquilizers increase the effects of the ACE inhibitor; and digoxin, lithium, and potassium preparations all exhibit increased serum levels when given with ACE inhibitors.
General Information:
The only known nutrient depletion with lisinopril is zinc. Symptoms of zinc deficiency might include decreased immunity, acne, anorexia, depression, and joint pain.
