Is it safe to take Xanax and lisinopril together?
No known major interactions exist between Xanax (alprazolam), a benzodiazepine for anxiety, and lisinopril, an ACE inhibitor for high blood pressure.[1][2] Clinical data from drug interaction checkers show no significant pharmacokinetic or pharmacodynamic conflicts, meaning they don't alter each other's metabolism or effects in a dangerous way.[3]
What do doctors and guidelines say?
Prescribers often combine them safely for patients with co-existing anxiety and hypertension. The FDA labels for both drugs list no specific warnings about this pairing.[1][4] Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist, as individual factors like dose, age, kidney function, or other meds can influence safety.
Any minor risks or side effects to watch for?
Both can cause drowsiness or dizziness independently—Xanax more potently—so together they might amplify fatigue or impair driving.[2][5] Lisinopril may rarely cause cough or low blood pressure; Xanax can lead to dependence with long-term use. Monitor blood pressure and avoid alcohol, which worsens sedation.[3]
What if you have certain health conditions?
Safer in most cases, but caution for:
- Elderly patients: Higher fall risk from combined sedation.[5]
- Liver/kidney issues: Slower clearance of both drugs.[2][4]
- Breathing problems (e.g., sleep apnea): Xanax depresses respiration.[1]
No issues reported with heart conditions where lisinopril is common.[3]
Common alternatives if concerned
- Swap Xanax for non-sedating anxiety options like buspirone or SSRIs (e.g., sertraline).[6]
- For blood pressure, switch to ARBs like losartan if lisinopril causes cough—no interaction differences.[4]
Discuss tapering Xanax to avoid withdrawal.[1]
When to contact a doctor immediately
Seek help for severe dizziness, fainting, swelling (angioedema from lisinopril), confusion, or breathing trouble. Use tools like Drugs.com checker for your full med list.[3]
Sources
[1] FDA Xanax Label
[2] FDA Lisinopril Label
[3] Drugs.com Interaction Checker
[4] Lexicomp Drug Interactions
[5] UpToDate: Benzodiazepine Safety
[6] American Psychiatric Association Guidelines