How to Take Lisinopril: Side Effects, Dosage
Lisinopril dosing instructions, common side effects, warnings, and when to contact your prescriber. Based on FDA-approved prescribing information.
Not medical advice. Speak with a healthcare professional before using any medication.
Reviewed by:
Updated Feb, 15
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Information sourced from FDA-approved prescribing information and peer-reviewed medical references.
How to Take Lisinopril
How to Take Lisinopril
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, the following guidance applies to taking lisinopril.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, take it at the same time every day. Morning dosing is common, particularly when also taking a diuretic.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, swallow the tablet with a glass of water. It can be taken with or without food.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, typical adult starting dose is 10 mg once daily. Many adults are maintained on 20–40 mg once daily depending on indication. Follow your prescribed dose exactly.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, if starting after a heart event or for heart failure, doses often begin at 2.5–5 mg daily with gradual increases as directed.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, if you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to your next dose, skip the missed one — never double up.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information, keep taking it even if you feel well. Blood pressure medications work by maintaining steady levels in the body.
- Store at room temperature in a dry place, away from moisture and heat.
Warnings Before Taking Lisinopril
Per FDA-approved prescribing information: avoid if you have had angioedema with any ACE inhibitor.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information: do not use during pregnancy; ACE inhibitors can harm the developing fetus.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information: tell your doctor about kidney disease, dehydration, or low blood pressure.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information: avoid potassium supplements or salt substitutes unless approved by your clinician.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information: share all medicines you take to prevent unsafe interactions.
Lisinopril Side Effects
Common
Mild
Dry Cough
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, a persistent, tickling cough is a commonly reported side effect of ACE inhibitors including lisinopril. Report a troublesome cough to your prescriber.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
1–3 days
Common
Mild
Dizziness or Lightheadedness
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, dizziness may occur as the body adjusts to lower blood pressure. Rise slowly from sitting or lying positions.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
2–6 hours
Common
Mild
Fatigue
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, some people feel more tired than usual during initial weeks of therapy.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
4–12 hours
Common
Mild
Headache
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, mild headaches can occur as blood pressure begins to stabilize.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
1–6 hours
Uncommon
Moderate
Increased Potassium Levels
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, lisinopril can slightly raise potassium levels (hyperkalemia). Your prescriber may monitor lab values.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
No noticeable time (lab-only; varies)
Uncommon
Moderate
Kidney Function Changes
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, a small increase in serum creatinine can occur when starting ACE inhibitor therapy. Your prescriber will monitor kidney function as appropriate.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information. Contact your prescriber if side effects persist or worsen.
Normally lasts for:
No noticeable time (lab-only; varies)
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Have questions about compounding? Contact Voshell's Pharmacy — we prepare patient-specific medications pursuant to valid prescriptions from your licensed prescriber.
What If You Forgot to Take Lisinopril
What If You Forgot to Take Lisinopril?
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, if you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is already close to your next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and return to your normal schedule.
- Per FDA-approved prescribing information: do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose.
What If You Took Too Much Lisinopril
What If You Took Too Much Lisinopril?
Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 immediately for guidance on next steps.
Per FDA-approved prescribing information, lisinopril overdose may cause severe hypotension (very low blood pressure), dizziness, electrolyte disturbances, or kidney dysfunction. If symptoms are severe, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
How Much Does Lisinopril Cost
Lisinopril Cost With Insurance
With most U.S. insurance plans, lisinopril is typically covered as a low-tier generic. Copay amounts vary by plan, pharmacy, and formulary tier. Pricing information is not a guarantee of cost; contact your insurer or pharmacy for current pricing.
How Much Does Lisinopril Cost without Insurance
Lisinopril Cost Without Insurance
Lisinopril is widely available as a generic medication. Prices vary by pharmacy, dose, and quantity. Many pharmacies offer low-cost generic programs. Pricing information is not a guarantee of cost; contact your pharmacy for current out-of-pocket pricing.
