Lisinopril for the Heart

Several drugs have been explored to control my blood pressure. Some have been beta-blockers and others ACE inhibitors.

Beta-blockers are also known as beta-adrenergic antagonists, beta-adrenergic blocking agents and beta antagonists. Beta-blockers do exactly what the name implies. It keeps epinephrine or nonrepinephrine from adhering to a nerve’s beta-receptors in order to prevent a heart-related issue.

Beta-blockers are used for a myriad of reasons these days, including helping to prevent migraines. However, the medication was invented to help treat cardiac arrhythmia and heart attack.

ACE stands for angiotensin-conventing enzyme. ACE inhibitors are designed to treat heart disease and hypertension by relaxing the blood vessels so that blood can flow through them more easily. They accomplish this by keeping the enzyme in question from producing angiotensin.

Left alone angiotensin causes blood vessels to automatically narrow. That, in turn, triggers the release of hormones that cause the blood pressure to go higher. The higher the blood pressure, the harder the heart has to work in order to complete its job.

Lisinopril comes from the latter group of ACE inhibitors. It is prescribed for three primary reasons:

1. To stave off heart attack;
2. To increase survival following a heart episode and
3. To deal with hypertension.

Some people may discover they are allergic to this drug. Allergic reaction is usually manifested through abdominal pain, itchy skin or sudden rash, swelling and trouble breathing.

Others may experience side effects that range from mild to serious. These typically include constipation or diarrhea, fatigue, headache, lightheadedness, nauseau,queasy stomach and vomiting or sleepiness. Such side effects are common and often pass once the body has become accustomed to the drug.

There are; however, even more serious side effects possible. These include dizziness accompanied by blackout or fainting, fever, irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness, pain in the chest, rapid weight gain, sudden chills and unexplainable body aches. Any or all of the above side effects should be reported to a physician as quickly as possible and use of the drug should be suspended until a doctor has approved its continuance.

There are some drugs that can interact with Lisinopril in a negative manner. These include aspirin, aurothioglucose, diuretics, lithium, NSAIDs, oral diabetes medications, potassium supplements and salt substitutes.

Each of the above side effects reacts differently as well as from patient to patient. Inform your physician if you are taking any of these drugs so that he or she may make the appropriate adjustments or watch out for dangerous interactions.

Individuals with certain types of illness or disease may not be good candidates for Lisinopril. These include, but are not necessarily limited to those with the following:

– diabetes,
– heart disease,
– kidney disease,
– liver disease,
– lupus,
– rheumatoid arthritis and
– scleroderma.

Women who are pregnant may not be eligible for this drug since it can cause pregnancy-related birth defects. Breastfeeding mothers may also be exempt since the medication can be passed on to the infant via the mother’s breast milk.

Lisinopril typically comes in pill form and should be swallowed with an 8-oz glass of water. It may be taken with or without food. However, never consume alcohol while taking this medication. Doing so could cause an unpleasant or even life-threatening situation.

Missed doses should be taken as soon as they are remembered unless the time between the scheduled dose and the next upcoming dose is shorter.

Because of Lisinopril’s many dangers, it is important to take the medication exactly as prescribed by a physician. Never half the dosage or double up on it as both can cause serious problems. Report any possible overdose to a physician immediately or head toward the closest ER facility.