Lisinopril
Also known as: Zestril
What it's for
Lisinopril lowers high blood pressure and protects your heart and kidneys. It is used for heart failure and after heart attacks. It works similarly to ramipril.
Comes as: Tablets
How to take it
- Adults: Usually start with 2.5mg to 10mg once a day.
- Your doctor may increase the dose gradually.
- Take at the same time each day, with or without food.
- It may take a few weeks to see the full effect.
Doses here are typical. Always follow the instructions from your prescriber or on the packet — they come first.
Common side effects
- A dry, tickly cough
- Feeling dizzy, especially when standing up
- Headache
- Feeling tired
The leaflet inside the packet lists all known side effects.
Important safety points
- Not suitable if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy
- May cause dizziness when you first start - get up slowly
- Avoid potassium supplements and salt substitutes
- Tell your doctor if you have kidney problems
Get medical help urgently if…
- You have swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat
- You have difficulty breathing
- You have severe dizziness or fainting
- You have chest pain
Call NHS 111 for urgent advice, or 999 if someone is seriously unwell.
Before you act on anything here
This page is general information, written to help you understand — it is not personal medical advice and it cannot tell you what is right for you. Talk to your own GP, pharmacist or nurse about your own health.
- Need help now but it's not an emergency? Call NHS 111 or use 111.nhs.uk.
- Emergency? Call 999 or go to A&E.