Zestril (Lisinopril)

Description

Zestril, also known as lisinopril, is drug used to treat hypertension or high blood pressure. Since it is an ACE inhibitor, it has a strong influence over the blood circulation system. This makes it effective in treating various other diseases such as strokes and heart attacks as well. This medication can be used by both adults and children to treat blood pressure issues.

 

 

 

How it works

 

The drug inhibits anangiotensin converting enzyme which enables it to relax the blood vessels and facilitate a more fluid blood flow throughout the body. Moreover, by enabling the heart to pump more effectively, the drug increases the blood flow to other organs as well. This increased and fluid blood flow reduces the pressure in the veins and thereby decreases your blood pressure level.

 

Its uses

 

Apart from being used to treat high blood pressure, the medication is useful in reducing the effects of certain other serious complications as well. It is effective in treating congestive heart failure. One of the most beneficial qualities of this drug is the fact that it increases the chances of survival after a heart attack.

 

Dosage

 

This medication must be taken once daily – with or without food. Your dosage can vary from the usual pattern if your condition is unique. Although the dosage is usually determined according to the individual’s personal health condition, children are given the dose based on their weight. If you are taking this medication in liquid form, make sure you get the correct measurement of the dosage since you can easily overdose. If you are making any changes to the dosage or want to combine with this drug with another one, make sure to consult your healthcare provider and ask for his/her opinion.

 

Side effects

 

The following are some the side effects that may or may not be experienced during your treatment period.

 

 Kidney problems – swelling of feet, pain during urination and shortness of breath

 

 High potassium – reduced movement, slow hear rate and nausea

 

 Liver problems – tiredness, stomach pain and loss of appetite

 

 You might also experience less severe symptoms such as headaches, dizziness and chest pain. In the event of any of these symptoms, regardless of their severity, contact your healthcare provider to get immediate treatment before the condition becomes worse.

 

Precautions

 

 Make sure to adhere to the following precautionary methods to stay safe during the treatment period.

 

 Take frequent blood pressure and blood tests

 

 Reduce alcohol consumption

 

 Drink plenty of water throughout the treatment period

 

 Stop using the medication if you are getting any kind of surgery. But, make sure to consult your physician first.

 

 Do not change the dosage or skip doses without consulting your healthcare provider.

 

 If you are a diabetes patient or have kidney problems, make sure to mention this to your physician. Your current

 

 medications can react negatively to Zestril and deteriorate the condition.

 

Self-care

 

Zestril can influence excessive sweating. So, stay away from activities that influence sweating and avoid becoming dehydrated or overheated since it can result in a heat stroke. Make sure to consume enough fluids to keep yourself hydrated – especially during summer.

 

Do not increase the dosage of the medication thinking that it will accelerate the healing process. Doing so can only increase the risk of side effects.