medicationPrescription only (US)
LisinoprilBenefits, Dosage & Interactions
Lisinopril is a medication belonging to a class of drugs known as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It is primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), heart failure, and to improve survival after a heart attack. It is typically taken in the morning.
How much Lisinopril do people take?
The cited randomized trial titrated lisinopril from 10 mg to 40 mg once daily against amlodipine and chlorthalidone arms. Route reported: Oral. Frequency reported: Once daily in the cited trial. These are amounts documented in the cited studies and labels for Lisinopril — they are reported for reference, not a recommendation. Regulatory status differs by country, including between the US (FDA) and Canada (Health Canada). Confirm any amount with a licensed clinician before you take it.
See the full reported protocol and its sourcesResearched by DoseRoutine Research TeamReviewed for accuracy by Nicholas Alexander, RSE, SO, PMPLast updated Educational reference only — not medical advice. Always confirm dosing and safety decisions with a licensed clinician.
Evidence: Moderate — One published human randomized trial; results not yet replicated.
Evidence strengthModerate · 3/4
PreclinicalStrong human evidence
One published human randomized trial; results not yet replicated.
What should be reviewed before adding potassium to lisinopril?
Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor. Potassium supplements and potassium-based salt substitutes can raise potassium further, so kidney function, other medicines, and laboratory monitoring matter before adding them.
Source: MedlinePlus: Lisinopril
Browse compound evidence cardsPlasma half-life
~12 h
Typical timing
in the morning
Default unit
mg
What published protocols report
Ranges documented in the literature, shown for reference. DoseRoutine does not recommend an amount — your prescriber or the product label sets the dose.
- Reported amounts
- The cited randomized trial titrated lisinopril from 10 mg to 40 mg once daily against amlodipine and chlorthalidone arms[1]
- Route studied
- Oral[1]
- Frequency
- Once daily in the cited trial[1]
- Cycle length
- Mean follow-up of 4.9 years in the cited trial[1]
- Half-life
- Roughly 12 hours[1]
- Storage
- Room temperature, sealed[1]
Reported for Lisinopril in the cited sources. Published ranges are not dosing advice.
References & evidence
Documents the Lisinopril entry is written from. Each number matches an inline marker above.
- [1]Major outcomes in high-risk hypertensive patients randomized to angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor or calcium channel blocker vs diuretic: The Antihypertensive and Lipid-Lowering Treatment to Prevent Heart Attack Trial (ALLHAT)ALLHAT Officers and Coordinators for the ALLHAT Collaborative Research Group · JAMA · 2002 · Peer-reviewed · PMID 12479763
References & Evidence
Sources on this page that document Lisinopril dosing, timing and safety.
- [1]U.S. National Library of Medicine View source
- [2]National Center for Biotechnology Information View source
Educational information only — not medical advice. Dose ranges vary by person, indication and prescriber.
What is Lisinopril?Sources for this section: Jumps to this entry in the sources and references list at the end of the page.
Lisinopril is a medication belonging to a class of drugs known as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It is primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), heart failure, and to improve survival after a heart attack. Lisinopril works by relaxing blood vessels, which allows blood to flow more easily and lowers blood pressure. It is available as an oral tablet and is a commonly prescribed medication. (Mayo Clinic, MedlinePlus)
What does the research say about Lisinopril?
Tap a section to expand.
Lisinopril exerts its therapeutic effects by inhibiting the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE). ACE is a crucial component of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), a complex hormonal system that regulates blood pressure and fluid balance. When ACE is inhibited, it prevents the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II. Angiotensin II is a potent vasoconstrictor, meaning it narrows blood vessels, and also stimulates the release of aldosterone, a hormone that promotes sodium and water retention. By blocking the formation of angiotensin II, lisinopril causes vasodilation (widening of blood vessels), leading to a reduction in systemic vascular resistance and blood pressure. It also reduces aldosterone levels, contributing to decreased sodium and water retention. This overall action helps to reduce the workload on the heart and improve blood flow. (DrugBank, NIH)
Source for this section: Sources for How does Lisinopril work?: Jumps to this entry in the sources and references list at the end of the page.
Lisinopril offers several well-established benefits in cardiovascular health:
* **High Blood Pressure (Hypertension):** Lisinopril is effective in lowering elevated blood pressure, which helps to reduce the risk of serious cardiovascular events such as strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. Its action on blood vessels helps to maintain blood pressure within a healthy range. (MedlinePlus)
* **Heart Failure:** For individuals with heart failure, lisinopril can help to improve symptoms, reduce hospitalizations, and prolong life. It does this by reducing the strain on the heart and improving its pumping efficiency. (Mayo Clinic)
* **After a Heart Attack:** In patients who have experienced a heart attack, particularly those with left ventricular dysfunction, lisinopril can help to improve survival rates and reduce the risk of subsequent cardiovascular events. It helps to protect the heart muscle from further damage. (NIH)
* **Diabetic Nephropathy:** Though not a primary indication, lisinopril can also be beneficial in slowing the progression of kidney disease in people with diabetes and high blood pressure by reducing protein in the urine. (PubChem)
Extensive clinical research supports the efficacy and safety of lisinopril. Large-scale randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have consistently demonstrated its effectiveness in managing hypertension, heart failure, and improving outcomes post-myocardial infarction. For instance, studies have shown that ACE inhibitors, including lisinopril, significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular mortality and morbidity in hypertensive patients. In heart failure, investigations have reported improvements in exercise capacity, quality of life, and reduced hospitalizations. Post-heart attack, evidence points to improved left ventricular function and reduced rates of re-infarction and mortality. Specific evidence for these benefits is widely available through bodies such as the NIH and Cochrane reviews. (Cochrane, NIH ODS)
Lisinopril can cause various side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects may include a dry, persistent cough, dizziness, lightheadedness (especially when standing up), headache, and fatigue. Some individuals may experience nausea, diarrhea, or rash. More serious but less common side effects can include kidney problems, elevated potassium levels (hyperkalemia), allergic reactions (angioedema), and liver problems. Patients should report any persistent or severe side effects to their clinician. (MedlinePlus, FDA label)
This is educational information, not medical advice — consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.
Source for this section: Sources for What are the side effects of Lisinopril?: Jumps to this entry in the sources and references list at the end of the page.
Before starting lisinopril, it is crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all existing medical conditions, especially kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes, or a history of angioedema. Lisinopril can cause a sudden and severe drop in blood pressure, particularly after the first dose or when the dose is increased; this risk is higher in individuals who are dehydrated or on diuretic therapy. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, kidney function, and potassium levels is essential during treatment. Care should be exercised when operating machinery or driving until you know how lisinopril affects you, due to the risk of dizziness. The dose is user-directed and must be set by a licensed clinician. (FDA label, Mayo Clinic)
This is educational information, not medical advice — consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.
Source for this section: Sources for Who should avoid Lisinopril?: Jumps to this entry in the sources and references list at the end of the page.
Lisinopril is contraindicated in several situations. It should not be used by individuals with a history of angioedema related to previous ACE inhibitor treatment, or with hereditary or idiopathic angioedema. It is also contraindicated in pregnant women, as it can cause harm to the developing fetus, and should be discontinued immediately if pregnancy is detected. Co-administration with aliskiren-containing products is contraindicated in patients with diabetes or moderate to severe kidney impairment. Individuals with severe bilateral renal artery stenosis should also avoid lisinopril, as it can worsen kidney function. (FDA label, DrugBank)
This is educational information, not medical advice — consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.
Source for this section: Sources for When should Lisinopril not be taken?: Jumps to this entry in the sources and references list at the end of the page.
Lisinopril can interact with other medications and substances, potentially leading to adverse effects or reduced efficacy. Key interactions include:
* **Potassium-Sparing Diuretics and Potassium Supplements:** Concomitant use can lead to dangerously high potassium levels (hyperkalemia).
* **Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs):** NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can reduce the blood pressure-lowering effect of lisinopril and increase the risk of kidney problems.
* **Lithium:** Lisinopril can increase lithium levels, potentially leading to lithium toxicity.
* **Aliskiren:** Co-administration with aliskiren is contraindicated in patients with diabetes or moderate to severe renal impairment due to an increased risk of hypotension, hyperkalemia, and worsening renal function.
* **Other Antihypertensive Medications:** Combining lisinopril with other blood pressure-lowering agents may lead to an excessive drop in blood pressure.
* **Sacubitril/Valsartan (Entresto):** Concomitant use is contraindicated due to an increased risk of angioedema. A washout period is required between these medications.
Always provide a complete list of all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to your healthcare provider. (FDA label, MedlinePlus)
This is educational information, not medical advice — consult a qualified clinician before starting, stopping or combining any compound.
Source for this section: Sources for What should you not mix with Lisinopril?: Jumps to this entry in the sources and references list at the end of the page.
The typical timing for taking lisinopril is once daily, usually in the morning. It can be taken with or without food. Consistency in timing each day helps to maintain stable blood levels of the medication. The exact dose and timing must be set by a licensed clinician. (MedlinePlus)
Source for this section: Sources for When should you take Lisinopril?: Jumps to this entry in the sources and references list at the end of the page.
Put it into practice
Reading about Lisinopril is the first step — DoseRoutine helps you act on it. These free tools turn what you just learned into a routine.
What interacts with Lisinopril?
| Interacts with | Severity | Type | What happens | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Potassium | Caution | Compound pairConfidence: theoretical | ACE inhibitors like lisinopril can raise potassium; adding potassium supplements can push it too high.Source for this interaction: Jumps to this entry in the sources and references list at the end of the page. | Don't add potassium without provider guidance and monitoring. |
| Any supplement + medication | Note | Category ruleConfidence: theoretical | Some supplements change how the body processes medications (absorption, liver enzymes, or additive effects).Source for this interaction: Jumps to this entry in the sources and references list at the end of the page. | Specific pairs are checked against a licensed drug database and shown with their own severity. Always confirm with your provider or pharmacist. |
| Any vitamin + medication | Note | Category ruleConfidence: theoretical | Certain vitamins interact with specific medications (e.g., vitamin K with blood thinners).Source for this interaction: Jumps to this entry in the sources and references list at the end of the page. | Specific pairs are checked against a licensed source; confirm with your provider. |
| Amantadine | Caution | Compound pairConfidence: theoretical | Amantadine can cause orthostatic hypotension; adding an ACE inhibitor may drop blood pressure further, especially on standing.Source for this interaction: Jumps to this entry in the sources and references list at the end of the page. | Watch for dizziness on standing. Rise slowly. Report lightheadedness or fainting to your clinician. |
| Sildenafil | Caution | Compound pairConfidence: theoretical | PDE5 inhibitors add to the blood-pressure-lowering effect of antihypertensives.Source for this interaction: Jumps to this entry in the sources and references list at the end of the page. | Start PDE5 at the lowest effective dose and monitor for hypotension. |
| Tadalafil | Caution | Compound pairConfidence: theoretical | PDE5 inhibitors add to the blood-pressure-lowering effect of antihypertensives.Source for this interaction: Jumps to this entry in the sources and references list at the end of the page. | Start PDE5 at the lowest effective dose and monitor for hypotension. |
| Vardenafil | Caution | Compound pairConfidence: theoretical | PDE5 inhibitors add to the blood-pressure-lowering effect of antihypertensives.Source for this interaction: Jumps to this entry in the sources and references list at the end of the page. | Start PDE5 at the lowest effective dose and monitor for hypotension. |
Frequently asked questions about Lisinopril
The most common side effect associated with lisinopril is a persistent, dry cough. This cough is typically non-productive and can be quite bothersome for some individuals. If you experience this side effect, discuss it with your clinician, as there may be alternative medications or strategies to manage it. (Mayo Clinic)
No, you should not stop taking lisinopril without consulting your healthcare provider. Even if your blood pressure readings are within a normal range, stopping the medication abruptly can cause your blood pressure to rise again, potentially leading to serious health complications. Lisinopril is often a long-term treatment. (MedlinePlus)
Lisinopril is not safe for use during pregnancy. It can cause serious harm or even death to the unborn baby if taken during the second and third trimesters. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, you must inform your clinician immediately to discuss alternative treatments. (FDA label)
Unlike some other medications, lisinopril is not known to have a significant interaction with grapefruit or grapefruit juice. However, it's always advisable to discuss all dietary habits and potential interactions with your healthcare provider or pharmacist, especially when starting a new medication. (PubChem)
Lisinopril is typically taken in the morning. The reported plasma half-life is about 12 hours, which is what drives how often it is redosed. It is a controlled substance in some jurisdictions, so the prescribed amount is the only appropriate one. Amounts for this medication vary by protocol, formulation and individual response, so follow the dose your clinician or the product label specifies.
Whether Lisinopril fits alongside testosterone replacement therapy depends on the protocol — dose, ester and ancillaries such as HCG or anastrozole — and on current bloodwork. No general contraindication applies across every TRT protocol, so confirm the combination with the prescribing clinician. See the free TRT interaction reference: https://doseroutine.com/trt-supplement-interactions
"Peptides" is not one category — healing peptides, GLP-1 agonists, growth-hormone secretagogues and melanocortins each behave differently next to Lisinopril. Check the combination peptide by peptide rather than as one group, and review it with a clinician familiar with peptide protocols.
With a plasma half-life near 12 hours, once-daily dosing is the usual pattern for Lisinopril. It is typically taken in the morning. Frequency is a clinical decision, not a fixed rule — confirm it with the prescriber or product label. Comparison of apps that keep a schedule like this: https://doseroutine.com/best-dose-tracking-apps
With a plasma half-life near 12 hours, a single missed dose of Lisinopril usually has a smaller effect on overall exposure than an irregular pattern of missed doses does. Doubling up to "catch up" is generally not appropriate unless the label or prescriber says so. Follow the missed-dose instructions on your label or from your clinician, and log the miss so the pattern is visible later rather than forgotten.
For Lisinopril the useful record is the dose, the time it was actually taken, and what else was taken in the same window. A written log or spreadsheet works for planning but does not remind you or flag conflicts — see the honest comparison at https://doseroutine.com/vs/spreadsheet and the wider roundup at https://doseroutine.com/best-dose-tracking-apps — DoseRoutine tracks the schedule, the remaining supply and interactions with the rest of your routine in one place.
Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor. Potassium supplements and potassium-based salt substitutes can raise potassium further, so kidney function, other medicines, and laboratory monitoring matter before adding them.
Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat can indicate angioedema and needs urgent care. Pregnancy also requires immediate contact with the prescribing clinician because the medicine can harm the fetus.
The cited randomized trial titrated lisinopril from 10 mg to 40 mg once daily against amlodipine and chlorthalidone arms. Route reported: Oral. Frequency reported: Once daily in the cited trial. These are amounts documented in the cited studies and labels for Lisinopril — they are reported for reference, not a recommendation. Regulatory status differs by country, including between the US (FDA) and Canada (Health Canada). Confirm any amount with a licensed clinician before you take it.
Which studies looked at Lisinopril?
Peer-reviewed research indexed in PubMed. Each entry links to the original record.
- 1.The clinical pharmacology of lisinopril(opens PubMed in a new tab)J Hum Hypertens · 1989 · PMID 2550635 · https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2550635/
- 2.The clinical pharmacology of lisinopril(opens PubMed in a new tab)J Cardiovasc Pharmacol · 1987 · PMID 2442549 · https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2442549/
Sources cited on this page
Specific documents referenced by the numbered markers above. Each number matches the marker in the text.
- MedlinePlus(opens in a new tab)U.S. National Library of Medicine · medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a692051.html
- PubChem CID 55187(opens in a new tab)National Center for Biotechnology Information · pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/55187
Verify at
Publisher search links for Lisinopril. These are places to check the information — they are not citations, so they are not numbered.
- Cochrane Library(publisher search, opens in a new tab)Cochrane · publisher search
- DrugBank(publisher search, opens in a new tab)DrugBank Online · publisher search
- Examine.com(publisher search, opens in a new tab)Examine.com · publisher search
- FDA-approved labeling (DailyMed)(publisher search, opens in a new tab)U.S. Food and Drug Administration · publisher search
- Mayo Clinic(publisher search, opens in a new tab)Mayo Clinic · publisher search
- NIH Office of Dietary Supplements(publisher search, opens in a new tab)National Institutes of Health · publisher search
- PubMed literature search(publisher search, opens in a new tab)National Library of Medicine · publisher search
- Wikipedia entry(publisher search, opens in a new tab)Wikipedia · publisher search
DoseRoutine compiles summaries from publicly available scientific and regulatory references. Always verify important decisions with a licensed clinician. How we source and review this information.
What is the short answer on Lisinopril?
Plain-text summary, safe to quote verbatim:
Lisinopril is a medication belonging to a class of drugs known as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It is primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), heart failure, and to improve survival after a heart attack. It is typically taken in the morning.
Source: DoseRoutine — https://doseroutine.com/library/lisinopril
Lisinopril cheat sheet
DoseRoutine cheat sheet · Medication
Lisinopril
Lisinopril is a medication belonging to a class of drugs known as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It is primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), heart failure, and to improve survival after a heart attack.
Evidence
Moderate
One published human randomized trial; results not yet replicated.
Studied range
The cited randomized trial titrated lisinopril from 10 mg to 40 mg once daily against amlodipine and chlorthalidone arms
Route
Oral
Frequency studied
Once daily in the cited trial
Half-life
~12 h
Timing
in the morning
Storage
Room temperature, sealed
Prescription only (US)
Studied ranges, not dosing advice. Not medical advice — talk to a clinician. doseroutine.com/library/lisinopril
Cite this page
Using this in an article, AI answer, or research note? Please attribute:
DoseRoutine. (2026). Lisinopril — Overview, Benefits & Side Effects. Retrieved from https://doseroutine.com/library/lisinopril
What compounds are similar to Lisinopril?
Others in the medication category or studied for the same goals.