Zestril

By blocking the action of an enzyme called ACE, Lisinopril helps relax and widen the blood vessels, reducing blood pressure and improving blood flow. This can help lower the workload on the heart and improve its overall function.

In addition to treating high blood pressure and heart failure, Zestril may also be prescribed for other medical conditions, including certain kidney disorders or as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for individuals who have recently had a heart attack.

How to use

Here are some general guidelines for using Zestril:

1. Take with or without food: Medicine can be taken with or without food. However, it is important to take it consistently, either with food or on an empty stomach, to maintain consistent blood levels of the medication.
2. Swallow with water: Take tablets with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablets.
3. Follow the prescribed schedule: Take Zestril at the same time each day to help establish a routine and ensure consistent blood levels of the medication. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take double doses to make up for a missed one.
4. Duration of treatment: Continue taking Zestril for as long as prescribed, even if you feel well. Stopping the medication abruptly may lead to a sudden increase in blood pressure or worsening of your condition.

Dosage

The following are general dosage guidelines for Zestril:

High blood pressure (hypertension):

• The usual starting dose for adults is 10 mg once daily.
• The maximum recommended dose is 40 mg per day.
• In some cases, a lower starting dose may be recommended for certain individuals, such as those with kidney problems or taking diuretics.

Heart failure:

• The usual starting dose for adults is 5 mg once daily.
• Your healthcare provider may gradually increase the dose, typically at 1 to 2-week intervals, based on your response and tolerance. The target maintenance dose is usually between 20 mg and 40 mg per day, divided into two daily doses.

Acute myocardial infarction (heart attack):

• Zestril may be initiated within the first 24 hours after a heart attack.
• The starting dose is typically 5 mg once daily, followed by 5 mg after 24 hours, 10 mg after 48 hours, and then 10 mg once daily for 6 weeks.

Side effects

Zestril may cause certain side effects in some individuals. It is important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary. Common side effects may include:

1. Cough: Lisinopril can cause a dry, persistent cough in some individuals.
2. Dizziness or lightheadedness: You may experience feelings of dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when getting up quickly from a sitting or lying position. Take caution to avoid falls or accidents.
3. Fatigue or tiredness: Zestril may cause feelings of fatigue or tiredness.
4. Headache: Some individuals may experience headaches while taking Zestril.
5. Nausea or vomiting: Medicine may cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea or vomiting in some individuals. If these symptoms are severe or persistent, seek medical advice.
6. Skin rash: Rarely, Zestril can cause skin reactions or rashes.
7. Swelling: Zestril may cause swelling in the hands, feet, or ankles.
8. Changes in taste sensation: Some individuals may notice alterations in their sense of taste or experience a metallic taste in their mouth while taking Zestril.

Storage

When it comes to storing Zestril, it is important to follow certain guidelines to ensure its effectiveness and maintain its quality. Here are some recommendations for storing:

1. Temperature: Store medicine at room temperature, ideally between 68°F (20°C) and 77°F (25°C).
2. Protect from moisture: Keep tablets in its original container and make sure the container is tightly closed to protect the tablets from moisture. Avoid storing the medication in areas with high humidity, such as the bathroom.
3. Protect from light: Store Zestril in a place where it is not exposed to excessive light, especially direct sunlight. It is best to keep the container in a cool, dark location.
4. Keep away from children: Store Zestril out of the reach of children and pets. It is recommended to keep the medication in a secure cabinet or a place where children cannot access it.
5. Do not transfer tablets: Do not transfer tablets to a different container. The original container is designed to provide appropriate protection and information about the medication.
6. Check expiration date: Before taking Zestril, always check the expiration date on the packaging. Do not use the medication if it has expired. Properly dispose of any expired or unused tablets following local regulations or guidelines.

Overdose

An overdose of Zestril can be serious and may require prompt medical intervention. Here are some general guidelines on what to do in case of an overdose:

1. Call for help: If you suspect an overdose, call emergency services or your local poison control center right away. They can provide guidance on what steps to take next.
2. Do not induce vomiting: Do not try to induce vomiting unless instructed to do so by medical professionals. Vomiting may not be effective in removing the medication from your system and can pose additional risks.
3. Provide information: When seeking medical help, provide accurate information about the medication taken, including the name, the dosage strength, and the amount ingested if known.
4. Monitor vital signs: While waiting for medical assistance, monitor your vital signs, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing, if possible. If you notice any severe symptoms or changes, relay this information to the medical professionals.

Missed Doses

If you miss a dose of Zestril, it is important to take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Here are some general guidelines for managing missed doses:

1. Take the missed dose: If you remember that you missed a dose and it is not close to the time for your next scheduled dose, take the missed dose as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
2. Do not double the dose: Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one. Taking more than the prescribed dose can increase the risk of side effects without providing any additional benefit.
3. Follow your regular schedule: After taking the missed dose or skipping it, continue taking Zestril as prescribed.
4. Set reminders: To help avoid missing doses in the future, consider setting reminders such as alarms or using medication reminder apps. This can help you stay consistent with your Zestril dosing schedule.