Lisinopril

Lisinopril is commonly prescribed to treat conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels, such as high blood pressure. It can also help improve survival following a heart attack. The drug blocks the angiotensin-converting enzyme, which is normally part of a reaction in the body that causes blood vessels to narrow. Lisinopril comes in tablet form and is typically taken once a day. Possible side effects include dizziness, cough, and diarrhea.

 

What Is Lisinopril?

Lisinopril is a prescription medicine sold under the brand names Zestril® and Prinivil®. It is also available as a generic medication (Lisinopril tablets). Lisinopril has been licensed to treat several conditions related to the heart and blood vessels. Some uses of lisinopril include:
 
 
Lisinopril has also been approved as a treatment for high blood pressure in children 6 years of age and older.
 
Lisinopril is not a cure for high blood pressure or congestive heart failure, however.
 
(Click What Is Lisinopril Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
 

How Does Lisinopril Work?

Lisinopril is part of a class of drugs called ACE inhibitors.
 ACE stands for angiotensin-converting enzyme. Lisinopril helps block this enzyme, which is normally part of a reaction in the body that causes the blood vessels to narrow (constrict). By blocking this enzyme, Lisinopril causes blood vessels to relax, which can lower blood pressure.
 
By helping blood vessels relax, lisinopril also increases the efficiency of the heart. This means that the heart does not have to work as hard and more blood can be pumped out to the rest of the body. Both of these are helpful for a person with congestive heart failure.
 
(Lisinopril Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;