Lisinopril

Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on 3/28/2024

Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription

The use of lisinopril has been shown to cause side effects in some patients.

Common mild side effects of lisinopril use include:

• Dizziness
  
• Headache
  
• Cough
  
• Fatigue
  
• Nausea
  
• Diarrhea
  
• Weakness
  
  

More severe side effects include:

• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (angioedema)
  
• Difficulty breathing
  
• Chest pain
  
• Severe skin reactions such as blistering or peeling
  
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
  
• Decreased urination
  
• High potassium levels (hyperkalemia)
  
  

Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any severe symptoms while taking lisinopril. If you experience mild side effects that become severe or do not go away after a few days, speak to a healthcare provider right away.

Tell your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking before starting treatment with lisinopril. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with this drug.

Tell your provider if you are taking these medications or supplements:

• Potassium supplements
  
• Diuretics (water pills)
  
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  
• Antidiabetic medications
  
• Other blood pressure medications
  
  

You should also mention medical conditions such as:

• Diabetes
  
• Kidney disease
  
• Liver disease
  
• Heart disease
  
• Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
  
• Scleroderma
  
• History of angioedema
  
• Immunosuppression
  
  

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using lisinopril to assess potential risks and benefits.

You can follow your regular diet while taking lisinopril. Talk to your healthcare provider about the use of this drug with food, beverages, alcohol, and tobacco.

Your doctor may order you to eat a low-sodium diet while you are taking lisinopril. Tell your provider if you use salt substitutes containing potassium.

Your healthcare provider will provide specific instructions regarding the use of lisinopril with food, beverages, and other medications. It's essential to follow their guidance to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment and minimize the risk of side effects.

The symptoms of a lisinopril overdose include:

• Severe dizziness
  
• Fainting
  
• Extreme weakness
  
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
  
  

If you experience any of these symptoms, call the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222. If an individual has collapsed, is having seizures, or is unresponsive, call 9-1-1 immediately.