ACE InhibitorPrescription Only

Lisinopril

Oral Tablet

Quick Summary

Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure, and to improve survival after a heart attack. It works by blocking the angiotensin-converting enzyme, which relaxes blood vessels and reduces blood pressure.

Hypertension
Congestive Heart Failure
Post-Myocardial Infarction

Medical Uses

Hypertension: Managing high blood pressure in adults and children at least 6 years of age.
Congestive Heart Failure: As an adjunct treatment to help manage symptoms and improve heart function.
Post-Myocardial Infarction: Administered within 24 hours of a heart attack to improve hemodynamic stability and survival rates.

How it's taken

Lisinopril is a tablet you swallow, usually once a day. Try to take it at about the same time each day. You can take it with or without food.

Keep taking it even if you feel well. High blood pressure often has no symptoms, and stopping suddenly can make it rise again. Talk to your doctor before you stop or change how you take it.

Your doctor decides the right dose for you. Follow their instructions and the label.

Common Side Effects

Dry Cough

The most common side effect of ACE inhibitors. Usually subsides upon discontinuation.

Dizziness

Particularly when standing up quickly. Occurs due to blood pressure changes.

Headache

Mild to moderate tension-style headaches reported in 5% of patients.

Fatigue

General feeling of low energy as the body adjusts to lower blood pressure.

Interactions

Potassium Supplements

Lisinopril can increase potassium levels. Combining with supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics may lead to hyperkalemia.

NSAIDs

Drugs like ibuprofen or naproxen can reduce the blood pressure lowering effect of lisinopril and may increase the risk of kidney issues.

Lithium

Lisinopril may increase the amount of lithium in your blood, potentially leading to lithium toxicity.

Critical Warnings

Fetal Toxicity

Black Box Warning: When pregnancy is detected, discontinue lisinopril as soon as possible. Drugs that act directly on the renin-angiotensin system can cause injury and death to the developing fetus.

Angioedema

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, as this can obstruct breathing.

Sources and further reading

Last updated October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.