What You Need to Know About Lisinopril
Aug 19, 2021High blood pressure is a common health issue and can be extremely debilitating when left untreated. Improper management of high blood pressure can contribute to potentially many severe health risks and conditions including heart failure, stroke, kidney failure, loss of vision, and may even affect lifespan. Patients who struggle with high blood pressure can try to manage their symptoms and condition through various lifestyle changes including improving their diets, maintaining a healthy weight, and limiting alcohol consumption to a moderate intake.
The prescription drug, Lisinopril, can be used in the treatment of high blood pressure in combination with these lifestyle changes and can potentially help prevent future health problems related to this condition. If you or someone you know is suffering from high blood pressure, the prescription medication, Lisinopril may be able to help. Always consult with your healthcare physician first, but use the below guide to help you determine if Lisinopril could be right for you.
What is Lisinopril?
Lisinopril, the generic medication also marketed under the brand names Prinivil and Zestril, is used in the treatment of high blood pressure and heart failure. Lisinopril is part of a class of medications known as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It is typically prescribed to patients after a heart attack or heart failure to help prevent another one and improve the person’s survival rate. It’s important to note this medication helps manage blood pressure and prevent further damage, while helping to treat these conditions, but is not itself considered a cure for any of these conditions.
How Does Lisinopril Work?
As part of the ACE inhibitors class, Lisinopril works by helping prevent the body from producing angiotensin II, a substance or enzyme that is known to narrow the blood vessels, which can cause blood pressure to rise and make the heart have to work harder. Lisinopril helps relax the blood vessels causing them to expand which helps the blood flow more smoothly and takes pressure off the heart so it doesn’t have to work as hard.
What Is the Typical Dosage of This Medication?
It is essential that you first consult your healthcare provider before starting any new prescription medication. Also, always be sure to carefully follow the recommendations of your health care provider, use the medication as instructed and as per the directions on the prescription label.
The dosage for Lisinopril is determined individually. However, the typical initial dose is 2,5-5mg, with an average maintenance dose of 5-20 mg. This medication has a maximum dose of 80 mg per day. Any dosage higher than this is not considered safe.
How Is Lisinopril Taken?
This medication is usually taken once a day by mouth as a tablet or liquid solution. It can be taken with or without food. Always make sure to swallow the tablets whole with plenty of water, and avoid cutting the tablet in half or taking more than what was prescribed by your medical provider. If you’re taking Lisinopril as a liquid, a plastic syringe should come with it to help you achieve the exact dosage. Always follow your doctor and prescription label’s instructions, and try to take it around the same time every day.
What If I Miss a Dose?
Make sure to take the missed dose as soon as possible, unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, just skip the missed one. If you find yourself frequently missing your doses, try setting an alarm to remind you as it can be dangerous to skip more than 2 doses in a row.
What Foods Should Be Avoided While Taking Lisinopril?
Due to the medication’s ability to increase blood potassium, foods high in potassium should be limited or consumed in low amounts. These include, but are not limited to foods like bananas, coconut water, potatoes, dark leafy greens, salt substitutes, and squash. Potassium supplements should also be avoided unless recommended by your doctor.
Are There Side Effects to This Medication?
It is possible to experience side effects when using Lisinopril. Common side effects include but are not limited to: dizziness, headache, extreme lethargy, nausea, diarrhea, rash, persistent cough. More serious side effects can occur that require immediate medical attention, including but not limited to: difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling of the face, tongue, eyes, or lips, chest pain, fainting. Always consult with your doctor about any side effects you could be experiencing.
Lisinopril can be effective in the management of high blood pressure. For best results, try to combine its effects with dietary and lifestyle changes. Make sure to always keep medication out of reach of children and store it at room temperature away from heat and moisture. Lisinopril should never be taken without the supervision of a health professional.
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