LISINOPRIL (Prinivil, Zestril) is an antihypertensive (blood pressure lowering agent) known as an ACE inhibitor. Lisinopril controls high blood pressure (hypertension) by relaxing blood vessels; it is not a cure. High blood pressure levels can damage your kidneys, and may lead to a stroke or heart failure. Lisinopril also helps to treat patients with heart failure (heart does not pump strongly enough). Generic lisinopril tablets are available.

Special precautions

Tell your doctor:

• If you have any of these conditions; autoimmune disease (such as lupus), or suppressed immune function; previous swelling of the tongue, face, or lips with difficulty breathing, difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, or tightening of the throat (angioedema); bone marrow disease; heart or blood vessel disease; low blood pressure; kidney disease.
• If you are on a special diet, such as a low-salt diet; an unusual or allergic reaction to lisinopril, other ACE inhibitors, foods, dyes, or preservatives; pregnant or trying to get pregnant; breast-feeding.
• If you are taking other medicines
• If you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs.

Side effects