Lisinopril
Lisinopril is a widely used ACE inhibitor for high blood pressure, heart failure with reduced ejection fraction in many care plans, and protection after some heart attacks when prescribed. It helps relax blood vessels and reduce fluid retention tendencies.
This medicine is part of the Blood pressure, cholesterol & related category.
Generic name: lisinopril
Quick answers
Short replies to searches people often run before speaking to a clinician. For the overview of what the medicine is used for, see the short summary under the page title above.
What is it for?
Lisinopril is a widely used ACE inhibitor for high blood pressure, heart failure with reduced ejection fraction in many care plans, and protection after some heart attacks when prescribed.
How long does it take to work?
Blood pressure can fall over days to weeks after starting or changing dose; attend follow-up checks your GP arranges.
What are common side effects?
Dizziness, headache, dry cough, and tiredness are common reasons people ask for reviews.
Can you take paracetamol or ibuprofen with it?
NSAIDs, potassium tablets, and trimethoprim (high doses) can raise potassium.
More about what Lisinopril is used for
Lisinopril is a widely used ACE inhibitor for high blood pressure, heart failure with reduced ejection fraction in many care plans, and protection after some heart attacks when prescribed.
It helps relax blood vessels and reduce fluid retention tendencies.
How does Lisinopril work, and how long does it take to work?
It blocks the angiotensin-converting enzyme, lowering angiotensin II and aldosterone effects, which lowers blood pressure and heart strain.
Benefits accrue over weeks; sudden excellent home readings still deserve continued review.
How and when should you take Lisinopril?
Usually once daily at a consistent time, with or without food depending on brand — read your leaflet.
First doses can lower blood pressure — your prescriber may advise taking the initial dose when resting in the evening.
What are the common side effects of Lisinopril?
Dizziness, headache, dry cough, and tiredness are common reasons people ask for reviews.
Mild rise in creatinine can occur and is sometimes expected — your GP interprets this.
Serious side effects of Lisinopril — when to get urgent help
Seek emergency help for swelling of face, lips, or throat, or difficulty breathing.
Severe abdominal pain with ACE inhibitors is rare but needs urgent assessment.
What if you miss a dose of Lisinopril?
Take when remembered unless nearly time for the next; do not double.
Who should not take Lisinopril?
Pregnancy, previous angioedema with ACE inhibitors, and some kidney artery problems contraindicate use.
Aortic stenosis and dehydration increase hypotension risk.
Can you take paracetamol or ibuprofen with Lisinopril? — other interactions
NSAIDs, potassium tablets, and Trimethoprim (high doses) can raise potassium. Lithium is risky without monitoring.
Lisinopril in pregnancy and breastfeeding
Do not use in pregnancy. Breastfeeding should be discussed with your prescriber.
Blood tests and monitoring on Lisinopril
Urea, electrolytes, and kidney function after starting and with dose changes.
What might your GP prescribe instead of Lisinopril?
ARBs, calcium channel blockers, or beta-blockers may be used if lisinopril is unsuitable.
Reviewed by UK registered pharmacists
Reviewed by UK registered pharmacists for accuracy and clarity. Content is informational only.
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Frequently asked questions about Lisinopril
People also ask — common Google searches
- What is Lisinopril used for?
- Lisinopril is a widely used ACE inhibitor for high blood pressure, heart failure with reduced ejection fraction in many care plans, and protection after some heart attacks when prescribed. It helps relax blood vessels and reduce fluid retention tendencies.
- How long does Lisinopril take to work?
- Blood pressure can fall over days to weeks after starting or changing dose; attend follow-up checks your GP arranges. Always follow your prescriber’s follow-up plan.
- Can you take Lisinopril with paracetamol or ibuprofen?
- NSAIDs, potassium tablets, and Trimethoprim (high doses) can raise potassium.
- What are the side effects of Lisinopril?
- Dizziness, headache, dry cough, and tiredness are common reasons people ask for reviews. Mild rise in creatinine can occur and is sometimes expected — your GP interprets this. See the sections below for more detail, including serious side effects and when to seek urgent help.
- Is lisinopril the same as ramipril?
- Both are ACE inhibitors with similar principles but different dosing schedules and formulations. Use the medicine on your prescription.
- Why take lisinopril at night?
- Some people start in the evening to reduce dizziness after the first doses; long term, morning or night is often fine if consistent — follow your prescriber’s advice.
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Often used with
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