Generic lisinopril is sold under the name Lisinopril tablets and is available in several strengths, ranging from 2.5 mg to 40 mg. Companies that manufacture the drug include Teva Pharmaceuticals, Mylan Laboratories, and Sandoz. As with the brand-name versions, generic lisinopril has been approved to treat high blood pressure and congestive heart failure and also to improve survival following a heart attack.
Generic Lisinopril: A Summary
Lisinopril is part of a class of drugs called ACE inhibitors -- ACE stands for angiotensin-converting enzyme. Lisinopril helps to block this enzyme, which is normally part of a reaction in the body that causes blood vessels to narrow (constrict). By blocking this enzyme, lisinopril causes blood vessels to relax, which can
lower blood pressure. Because lisinopril lowers
blood pressure, it can help reduce the risks that may occur with long-term
high blood pressure (see Effects of High Blood Pressure). For those with congestive
heart failure, relaxing the blood vessels can make it easier for the heart to pump.
Lisinopril was originally developed and sold as
Zestril® (AstraZeneca) and
Prinivil® (Merck & Co). The patents for both of these versions of lisinopril have since expired, which means that a generic lisinopril -- sold as
Lisinopril tablets -- is now available.
Strengths of Generic Lisinopril
Generic lisinopril comes in several strengths, including:
