What is lisinopril?
Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor that is directly effective and does not have to be activated in the liver. This distinguishes him from Ramipril and Enalapril. It is used for treating high blood pressure, heart failure and after a heart attack.
Lisinopril is available as a monopreparation and in combination with hydrochlorothiazide (Lisinopril-ratiopharm® comp.). It is taken once a day.
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Lisinopril
Lisinopril inhibits angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE):
Active mechanism:
- Direct ACE inhibition (no prodrug)
- Prevents the formation of angiotensin II
- Vessels relax, blood pressure drops
- Reduces the Aldosterone distribution
speciality:
- No metabolism required in the liver
- Therefore also usable in liver diseases
- Will be excreted unchanged over the kidneys
- duration of action: 24 hours (once daily intake)
Clinical effect: Blood pressure reduction by an average of 10-15 mmHg systolic. In addition, protective effect on heart and kidneys.
Who is it suitable for?
Lisinopril is suitable for:
- Adults with high blood pressure
- Patients with heart failure
- Early treatment after acute heart attack
- Diabetic nephropathy
Especially suitable for:
- Liver disease (no hepatic activation necessary)
- Patients who prefer a one-time gift
Not suitable:
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Angioedema in History
- Heavy kidney failure (dose adjustment required)
Available Dosages
High blood pressure:
- Start dose: 10 mg once a day
- usual dose: 20 mg once a day
- Maximum dose: 80 mg daily
Sufficiency:
- start dose: 2.5 mg once a day
- Target dose: 20-35 mg once a day
Available starches:
- 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg, 20 mg tablets
Combination:
- Lisinopril + Hydrochlorothiazid (comp.)
How to Take
Intake:
- Once a day, always at the same time
- Independent meals
- With a glass of water
**
- First dose preferably in the evening
- Slow dose increase
- Regular laboratory controls (animal, potassium)
- Drink sufficient, especially in heat
Preview:
- After the first dose, blood pressure can drop more strongly
- Especially with previous diuretics therapy
- Don't suddenly stop
Contraindications
**Lisinopril must not be taken at:* *
- Sensitivity to lisinopril or other ACE inhibitors
- Angioedema in History
- Pregnancy (especially 2/3. Trimester)
- Side-sided kidney arterial stenosis
- Simultaneous application with Sacubitril/Valsartan
Preview at:
- Kidney insufficiency (dose adjustment)
- Hyperkaliemia
- Aortenstenose
- Hypertropic cardiomyopathy
- Collagenos
pregnant: Strikt contraindicated. Can lead to malformations and kidney damage in the unborn.
Possible Side Effects
Acid (1-10%):
- Dry stimulus cough
- Squeeze
- Headaches
- diarrhea
- fatigue
** Occasionally (0,1-1%):* *
- Orthostatic blood pressure drop
- Skin rash
- nausea
- Kidney function reduction
- Hyperkaliemia
Selten:
- Angioedema (emergence!)
- Heavy allergic reactions
- Changes in blood count
** When swelling occurs in the face, call on lips or tongue immediately not physician – Angioedema is an emergency.
Interactions
Important interactions:
- Potassium-saving diuretics → Hyperkaliemia risk
- NSAR → reduced effect, kidney damage
- Lithium → increased lithium mirror
- Other blood pressure counter → increased effect
- Aliskiren → contraindicated in diabetes
Preview:
- Insuline and oral antidiabetics (hypoglycemia possible)
- Gold injections (nitritoid reactions)
- mTOR inhibitors (increased angioedema risk)
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar Medications
Is lisinopril right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor. Read the package leaflet before use.





