What it does
Lisinopril is a medication used to manage blood pressure and heart failure. It helps to relax blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood.
Commonly used for: high blood pressure (hypertension), heart failure
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Source: Pharmacy and Medicines Regulatory Authority · fetched 2026-04-21 17:37:45 · updated 2026-09-29 04:33:06
About this medicine
Lisinopril is a medication used to manage blood pressure and heart failure. It helps to relax blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood.
What it treats
- high blood pressure (hypertension)
- heart failure
How it works
Lisinopril helps to relax blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure and improves blood flow.
Who it's for
This medication is suitable for adults with high blood pressure or heart failure.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: lisnopril
Lisinopril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor used primarily in the treatment of hypertension, heart failure, and to improve survival after myocardial infarction. It works by inhibiting the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor, leading to vasodilation and reduced blood pressure.
Indications
- Hypertension
- Heart failure
- Myocardial infarction
- Diabetic nephropathy
- Chronic kidney disease
Dosage
Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for specific paediatric dosing recommendations.
Adults: Refer to the BNF for specific adult dosing recommendations based on the condition being treated.
Mechanism of action
Lisinopril inhibits the ACE enzyme, which converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II. By blocking this conversion, lisinopril decreases levels of angiotensin II, resulting in less vasoconstriction and lower blood pressure. It also reduces aldosterone secretion, leading to decreased sodium and water retention.
Pharmacodynamics
The pharmacodynamic effects of lisinopril include decreased peripheral vascular resistance, reduced preload and afterload on the heart, and improved exercise tolerance in patients with heart failure. It can also help to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in patients with hypertension and other cardiovascular risk factors.
Pharmacokinetics
Lisinopril is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with a bioavailability of approximately 25%. It is not significantly protein-bound and is primarily eliminated by the kidneys. The half-life of lisinopril is approximately 12 hours, allowing for once-daily dosing. Peak plasma concentrations occur about 7 hours after oral administration.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to lisinopril or any component of the formulation
- History of angioedema related to previous ACE inhibitor therapy
- Pregnancy
- Severe renal impairment or renal artery stenosis
Adverse effects
- Cough
- Hyperkalemia
- Hypotension
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Angioedema
- Rash
- Renal impairment
- Nausea
Interactions
- Potassium-sparing diuretics may increase the risk of hyperkalemia
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may reduce the antihypertensive effect
- Lithium levels may increase, requiring monitoring
- Other antihypertensive agents may have additive effects
Precautions
- Monitor renal function and electrolytes periodically
- Use with caution in patients with a history of angioedema
- Caution in patients with heart failure or volume depletion
- Careful monitoring is needed in elderly patients or those with comorbidities
Pregnancy
Lisinopril is contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential harm to the fetus, especially during the second and third trimesters.
Breast-feeding
Lisinopril is excreted in breast milk; caution is advised when administered to nursing mothers.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Tablets
- Oral solution
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.