DRUG OF THE DAY
lisinopril
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor
Before opening the card, recall one use, one safety check and one counseling point.
Reveal the drug learning card
Names and formulations
- Zestril: oral tablet
Dose selection depends on indication, blood pressure, kidney function, volume status, and interacting therapy.
Common use
Hypertension; also labeled as adjunctive therapy for heart failure and to reduce mortality after acute myocardial infarction in appropriate patients.
Mechanism of action
Inhibits ACE, reducing angiotensin II and aldosterone formation and decreasing vasoconstriction and sodium retention.
Important adverse effects and monitoring
- Boxed warning: discontinue as soon as pregnancy is detected because renin-angiotensin system drugs can injure or kill the fetus.
- Monitor blood pressure, serum creatinine/eGFR, and potassium; watch for hypotension, kidney injury, and hyperkalemia.
- Angioedema can occur at any time and requires urgent evaluation, especially with tongue, lip, face, or airway swelling.
Patient counseling
- Avoid potassium supplements or potassium-containing salt substitutes unless the care team approves them.
- Report pregnancy promptly and seek emergency care for swelling involving the face, mouth, tongue, or throat.
Interaction to recognize
With: NSAIDs, especially in older, volume-depleted, or kidney-impaired patients
Why it matters: May reduce the antihypertensive effect and increase the risk of worsening kidney function.
Practical response: Use only with clinician guidance and monitor blood pressure and kidney function when clinically indicated.
Check the original sources
- DailyMed — Zestril (lisinopril) prescribing information
Sections: Boxed Warning; 1 Indications and Usage; 5 Warnings and Precautions; 7 Drug Interactions; 12.1 Mechanism of Action; 17 Patient Counseling Information. Source checked 2026-09-13.
Selected learning points; verify current labeling for the complete prescribing information.