Lisinopril: what it treats, how to take it, side effects
Last updated September 3, 2026.
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 decreasing chemicals that tighten blood vessels, so blood flows more smoothly and the heart pumps more efficiently.
What does it treat?
Lisinopril treats high blood pressure in adults and children 6 and older, usually as part of a bigger plan that includes diet, exercise, and not smoking - controlling blood pressure protects the brain, heart, kidneys, and eyes from long-term damage. It is also used with other medications for heart failure and to improve survival in the days after a heart attack. It controls these conditions; it does not cure them.
How do you take it?
Lisinopril is a once-daily tablet or liquid, taken at the same time each day, with or without food. Doctors typically start low and increase gradually. The label's starting dose for adults with high blood pressure is 10 mg once daily (5 mg if you also take a diuretic), titrated up to 40 mg daily based on your response; for heart failure it starts at 5 mg once daily. Kidney problems call for lower starting doses, so expect lab checks along the way. Keep taking it even when you feel fine - blood pressure drugs work quietly - and never stop without talking to your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless the next one is close; never double up.
Side effects to know
- Common: a dry cough (a classic ACE inhibitor effect), dizziness, headache, tiredness, nausea, diarrhea, weakness, sneezing or runny nose, decreased sexual ability, and rash.
- Serious: swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, or ankles (angioedema); hoarseness or difficulty breathing or swallowing; fever, sore throat, or chills; yellowing skin or eyes; fainting; and chest pain. Call your doctor immediately for any of these.
Who should not take it?
Do not take lisinopril if you are pregnant - it can harm the fetus, and if you become pregnant on it, call your doctor immediately. Anyone who has ever had angioedema should not take it. It also should not be combined with sacubitril/valsartan (Entresto) - the label requires at least 36 hours between them - or with aliskiren in people with diabetes. Tell your doctor about heart or kidney disease, diabetes, and everything you take: MedlinePlus flags interactions with aspirin, NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen, and potassium supplements. Be careful with salt substitutes containing potassium, and know that vomiting, diarrhea, sweating heavily, or not drinking enough can drop your blood pressure too far and cause fainting.
When is it an emergency?
Angioedema is the one to fear: swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, hoarseness, or difficulty breathing or swallowing means calling 911 immediately - it can close the airway. Fainting and chest pain also warrant emergency care. For an overdose, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222. Pymander's escalation routing is built and tested specifically for this class of decision; see the safety architecture working paper.
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Common questions
Why does lisinopril cause a cough?
A dry, tickly cough is one of the most common side effects listed for lisinopril on MedlinePlus, and it is a known trait of the whole ACE inhibitor class. It is not dangerous by itself, but tell your doctor - if it bothers you, there are other blood pressure medications that do not cause it.
Should I avoid potassium while taking lisinopril?
Check with your doctor first. MedlinePlus warns that potassium supplements interact with lisinopril, and it specifically says to talk to your doctor before using salt substitutes containing potassium. Lisinopril can raise potassium levels on its own, so additions need medical supervision.
Can I stop taking lisinopril once my blood pressure is normal?
No - the normal reading is the medication working, not the condition being gone. MedlinePlus is clear that lisinopril controls high blood pressure but does not cure it, and you should not stop without talking to your doctor.
Can I take ibuprofen with lisinopril?
Not casually. MedlinePlus lists NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen among the products that interact with lisinopril, and tells you not to start them while on it without discussing it with your healthcare provider. Ask your doctor or pharmacist what to use for pain instead.
Why do I feel dizzy on lisinopril?
Dizziness is a common side effect, and MedlinePlus explains one trigger: diarrhea, vomiting, heavy sweating, or not drinking enough fluids can drop your blood pressure too far, causing lightheadedness or fainting. Stay hydrated, stand up slowly, and report fainting right away.
Can I drink alcohol while taking lisinopril?
MedlinePlus includes using alcohol in moderation among the lifestyle changes that support blood pressure control. Moderation is the operative word - ask your doctor what that means for you, since alcohol can also amplify the blood-pressure-lowering effect.