What it means
An angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor used for hypertensionhy-per-TEN-shunBlood pressure that stays higher than normal, at or above 130/80 mm Hg by current US guidelines.hyper- above, more than normaltension pressureFull entry , heart failurehart FAYL-yerA long-term condition in which the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body's needs.Full entry , after a heart attack and to protect the kidneys in diabetes. It relaxes blood vessels and lowers the hormone signals that hold on to salt and water. Common side effects are a dry cough, dizziness and a high potassium level. A rare but dangerous one is angioedema, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat.
For the nurse
Check blood pressure before each dose and watch for low pressure after the first one. Check potassium and kidney function. Teach the client to report swelling of the face or throat at once, and that it must not be taken in pregnancy (boxed warning). Avoid potassium supplements and salt substitutes unless ordered.
Remember it
"-pril" drugs are ACE inhibitors.
At a glance
| Drug class | ACE inhibitor (antihypertensive) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Prinivil, Zestril, Qbrelis |
| Spanish | lisinopril |
| Also written | Prinivil, Zestril, Qbrelis |
Easy to confuse with
olanzapine
A second-generation antipsychotic drug used for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.
Related terms
hyperkalemia
A blood potassium level above normal, over 5.0 mEq/L.
hypertension
Blood pressure that stays higher than normal, at or above 130/80 mm Hg by current US guidelines.
antihypertensive
A drug that lowers blood pressure.
losartan
An angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that lowers blood pressure and protects the kidneys.