Lisinopril

Lisinopril is an antihypertensive medication belonging to the class of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It is primarily used for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure) and congestive heart failure. The drug is marketed under the brand name Prinivil and is available by prescription only.

Lisinopril structure

Medical uses

Lisinopril is indicated for the treatment of:

• Hypertension (high blood pressure), either alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents.
• Congestive heart failure as an adjunctive therapy with diuretics and, when appropriate, digitalis or beta-blockers.
• Reduction of risk of death or development of heart failure after a myocardial infarction (heart attack) in patients with clinical signs of congestive heart failure.

Mechanism of action

Lisinopril belongs to the class of ACE inhibitors, which work by inhibiting the angiotensin-converting enzyme. This enzyme is responsible for converting angiotensin I to the potent vasoconstrictor angiotensin II. By blocking this conversion, Lisinopril helps to reduce vasoconstriction, lower blood pressure, and alleviate the symptoms of congestive heart failure.

Pharmacokinetics

Lisinopril is administered orally in tablet form. It is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract with peak plasma concentrations reached within 6-8 hours after ingestion. The drug has a bioavailability of approximately 25%. Lisinopril is not metabolized in the liver and is excreted unchanged in the urine. The elimination half-life of Lisinopril is approximately 12 hours, allowing for once-daily dosing.

Side effects

Common side effects of Lisinopril include:

Dizziness or lighthead theadedness

• Dry cough
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Rash or itching
• Muscle cramps

Serious side effects may include:

• Severe allergic reactions (angioedema)
• Hypotension (low blood pressure)
• Kidney impairment
• Hyperkalemia (high potassium levels)
• Liver dysfunction

Contraindications

Lisinopril is contraindicated in patients with:

• A history of angioedema related to previous treatment with an ACE inhibitor
• Bilateral renal artery stenosis
• Hypersensitivity to Lisinopril or any other component of the formulation
• Pregnancy and lactation

Drug interactions

Lisinopril may interact with several other medications, including:

• Diuretics, which may increase the risk of hypotension
• Potassium-sparing diuretics or potassium supplements, which may cause hyperkalemia
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which may reduce the antihypertensive effect of Lisinopril and increase the risk of renal impairment
• Lithium, which may lead to increased lithium levels and toxicity
• Antidiabetic medications, which may cause hypoglycemia when used with Lisinopril

External links

MedlinePlus Encyclopedia: a692051

• Dailymed label info on Lisinopril
• FDA Lisinopril

Lisinopril Resources
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