Anyone familiar with Lisinopril?

Question

My dad recently started Lisinopril for his high blood pressure. He was wondering when to expect his blood pressure to start dropping. His doctor increased his dosage yesterday but his numbers are still high. Any pointers on how long to wait before becoming concerned?

Answer 1

Your dad shoud've asked his practitioner. Especially, when he is concern or curious about something. Lisinopril is an ACEI (angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor) Angiotensin is very potent vasoconstrictor. When your vessels are constricter BP goes up. this meds work in the lungs, so one of the side effects of this med is cough. If your dad cannot tolerate the side effect, his practitioner might switch him to ARB (angiotensin receptor blocker) The onset of this med is an hour. Also, this med alone will not help his BP to go down. He needs to modify his diet, lifestyle etc. Also, hyperkalemia is another side effect of this med (high potassium). I would recommend to call his practitioner to ask some questions.

Here are some useful links about hypertension. If he smokes, Stop. If he is not, Do not start!

http://WWW.NHLBI.NIH.GOV

http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/guidelines/hype...

http://www.guideline.gov/

http://www.ahrq.gov/