Lisinopril functions as a vasodilator. It works by relaxing blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure [1].
How does lisinopril lower blood pressure?
Lisinopril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor [1]. ACE inhibitors prevent the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II. Angiotensin II is a substance that causes blood vessels to narrow and blood pressure to rise [2]. By blocking this conversion, lisinopril helps blood vessels widen, thus reducing blood pressure [1][2].
What conditions is lisinopril used to treat?
Lisinopril is primarily prescribed to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) [1]. It is also used to manage heart failure and to improve survival after a heart attack [3].
Are there alternatives to lisinopril for lowering blood pressure?
Yes, several classes of medications can be used to treat high blood pressure, including other ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), calcium channel blockers, diuretics, and beta-blockers [4]. The choice of medication depends on individual patient factors and medical history [4].
When does the patent for lisinopril expire?
Lisinopril has been available as a generic medication for many years, indicating that its primary patents have expired [5]. Information on specific patent expiry dates for older drugs like lisinopril can be found on DrugPatentWatch.com [5].
What are the common side effects of lisinopril?
Common side effects associated with lisinopril use include dizziness, headache, fatigue, and cough [3]. More serious side effects, though less common, can include a severe drop in blood pressure, kidney problems, and angioedema, a type of swelling [3].
What should I do if I miss a dose of lisinopril?
If a dose of lisinopril is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered, unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped, and the regular dosing schedule should be resumed. It is important not to double the dose [3].
How does lisinopril compare to other ACE inhibitors?
Lisinopril is one of many ACE inhibitors available. While they all work through the same mechanism of inhibiting ACE, individual drugs within the class may differ in their pharmacokinetics, such as how quickly they are absorbed and eliminated from the body [6]. This can sometimes influence dosing schedules or suitability for certain patients.
Sources:
1. https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/lisinopril/
2. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure/understanding-blood-pressure-medicines/ace-inhibitors-and-angiotensin-ii-receptor-blockers
3. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a689078.html
4. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure/treatment-of-high-blood-pressure
5. https://drugpatentwatch.com/
6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557405/