Lisinopril is used alone or in combination with other medications to treat
high blood pressure in adults and children 6 years of age and older.

Lisinopril is also used in adults to treat congestive heart failure and to
improve survival after a heart attack.

Lisinopril belongs to a class of medications called angiotensin-converting
enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It works by decreasing certain chemicals that tighten
the blood vessels, so blood flows more smoothly and the heart can pump blood
more efficiently.

High blood pressure is a common condition and when not treated, can cause
damage to the brain, heart, blood vessels, kidneys, and other parts of the
body. Damage to these organs may cause heart disease, a heart attack, heart
failure, stroke, kidney failure, loss of vision, and other problems. In
addition to taking medication, making lifestyle changes will also help to
control your blood pressure. These changes include eating a diet that is low
in fat and salt, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising at least 30 minutes
most days, not smoking, and using alcohol in moderation.





Get emergency medical help if you have **signs of an allergic reaction to
lisinopril:** severe stomach pain, hives, difficult breathing, swelling of
your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

**Lisinopril may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you
have:**

  * a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;

  * **high blood potassium** \- nausea, weakness, tingly feeling, chest pain, irregular heartbeats, loss of movement;

  * **low white blood cell counts** \- fever, mouth sores, skin sores, sore throat, cough;

  * **kidney problems** \- swelling, urinating less, feeling tired or short of breath; or

  * **liver problems** \- loss of appetite, stomach pain (upper right side), tiredness, itching, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

**Common lisinopril side effects may include:**

  * headache, dizziness;

  * low blood pressure, cough; or

  * chest pain.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your
doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to
FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Lisinopril side effects (more detail)