This episode of Drug Cards Daily is on the drug lisinopril. The name brands are Zestril, Prinivil, Qbrelis (Solution).

Lisinopril is an Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitor that is most known for treatment of hypertension. Other indications are for heart failure and ST-elevation myocardial infarction.

Tablets come in a variety of doses. Initial dosing for hypertension begins at 5-10 mg once daily and is evaluated every 4-5 weeks. The dose is then doubled with the goal of 40 mg/day is achieved or until the patient’s tolerance is reached.

This drug is not metabolized with any unused unchanged drug being excreted through the urine. The hallmark side effect to watch for is cough. Other side effects are syncope, chest pain, headache, and change in the sense of smell.

This drug is not to be used if the patient is or may be pregnant due to fetal toxicity.