ACE Inhibitor (blood pressure medicine)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Lisinopril is a blood pressure-lowering medicine that works by relaxing your blood vessels so blood can flow more easily, reducing the strain on your heart.
Inhibits angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), preventing the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II and thereby reducing vasoconstriction, aldosterone secretion, and sodium retention. This results in vasodilation, decreased peripheral vascular resistance, and reduced blood pressure while preserving renal function.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
Take one tablet once a day, usually in the morning. You can take it with or without food. Most people start with 5 mg or 10 mg daily, and your doctor may increase it up to 20-40 mg depending on how your blood pressure responds. Swallow the tablet with a full glass of water. Do not stop taking it even if you feel fine — high blood pressure often has no symptoms.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your normal schedule. Do not take two tablets at once to make up for it.
This is a prescription medicine — do not buy from roadside vendors or take someone else's blood pressure tablets, as the wrong dose can be dangerous. Do not stop taking it because you feel fine; high blood pressure is a silent killer. If you develop a persistent dry cough, tell your doctor — they may switch you to another medicine rather than you stopping on your own.
Avoid taking potassium supplements or potassium-rich salt substitutes while on this drug as it can cause dangerously high potassium levels. NSAIDs like ibuprofen (e.g. Brufen) can reduce how well lisinopril works and may harm your kidneys if used together regularly. Alcohol can increase the blood pressure-lowering effect and make you feel very dizzy or faint.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Lisinopril with your other drugs?
Lisinopril is NOT safe during pregnancy — it can cause serious harm or death to your unborn baby, especially in the second and third trimesters. If you are breastfeeding, consult your doctor before taking it.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid keeping it near windows or in your car. Keep the container tightly closed and always out of reach of children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Dispensing Lisinopril Dihydrate?
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