Lisinopril / Hydrochlorothiazide

Lisinopril/hydrochlorothiazide is a prescription combination medication used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It contains two medications that lower blood pressure in different ways, making treatment more effective for many patients than either drug alone. Controlling blood pressure helps reduce the chances of cardiovascular risks, such as stroke, heart attack, heart failure, and kidney damage over time. This medicine is for long-term blood pressure control, not emergency treatment. Seek immediate care for a hypertensive crisis. While this combination medication is commonly prescribed for hypertension, it is best to always consult a healthcare provider before starting treatment.

Lisinopril/hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) is FDA-approved for:

• Treating high blood pressure in adults when other blood pressure medicines alone haven’t controlled hypertension.
• Reducing the risk of heart problems linked to uncontrolled hypertension.

No, Lisinopril and Lisinopril HCTZ are not the same medication, although they are closely related. Lisinopril, an ACE inhibitor, helps lower blood pressure levels by relaxing blood vessels. Meanwhile, Lisinopril HCTZ is a combination medication containing Lisinopril and Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ), a diuretic that helps the body remove excess salt and water.

When comparing Lisinopril HCTZ vs Lisinopril alone, the combination is often prescribed when blood pressure is not well controlled with a single medication. Adding HCTZ can improve blood pressure reduction. However, like any medication, it may also increase the risk of dehydration or electrolyte imbalance when not taken as prescribed. Discuss with your medical provider to choose the right medication.

This medication works by combining two active ingredients:

• Lisinopril, an ACE inhibitor, relaxes blood vessels by blocking the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), lowering blood pressure, and reducing strain on the heart.
• Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ), a diuretic, helps the kidneys remove excess salt and fluid through urine, reducing blood volume and blood pressure.

When used together, these medicines often control blood pressure better than either one alone.

This list does not include all possible Lisinopril/Hydrochlorothiazide side effects. If you notice other side effects that are not mentioned here, seek immediate medical care or report them to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 (1-800-332-1088).

Common Lisinopril/Hydrochlorothiazide Side Effects

These side effects are common among users. They are mild and usually resolve on their own, but if they last more than a few days, tell your doctor right away.

• Dizziness (8%)
• Cough (4%)
• Excessive tiredness (4%)
• Headache (5%)

Serious Lisinopril/Hydrochlorothiazide Side Effects

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience:

• Angioedema
• Hypotension
• Kidney problems
• High blood potassium levels
• Severe allergic reactions
• Severe dehydration or electrolyte imbalance

Follow these general guidelines on how to take Lisinopril/Hydrochlorothiazide for high blood pressure unless your doctor advises otherwise:

• Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Take it once daily at the same time each day.
• Take the tablet with or without food.
• Swallow whole with water.
• Do not stop taking it without medical guidance, even if you feel well.
• Drink enough fluids, especially in hot weather, to prevent dehydration.
• Monitor your blood pressure frequently as advised by your provider.

The dosage is individualized based on blood pressure response and tolerance.

• Starting Dose: Lisinopril/Hydrochlorothiazide 10/12.5 mg once daily for most patients.
• Dose Increment: Your doctor may increase the dose every 2 to 3 weeks as needed.

Lisinopril/hydrochlorothiazide combination medication carries multiple warnings, including:

• Angioedema: This reaction is uncommon but serious. Lisinopril may cause life-threatening swelling of the face, tongue, throat, or lips at any time during treatment. This risk is higher in Black patients. Get medical help if you experience any such symptoms.
• Low blood pressure: This combination medication can sometimes drop your blood pressure levels too much. The risk is higher in patients who are dehydrated, on diuretics, or taking higher doses of diuretic medication.
• Kidney damage: It may also worsen kidney disease or cause acute kidney injury, especially in people with renal artery stenosis. Talk to your doctor before taking Lisinopril/Hydrochlorothiazide for high blood pressure.
• Hyperkalemia: Lisinopril may raise potassium levels, especially in kidney disease. Tell your doctor if you notice a fast heartbeat, low energy, muscle pain, cramps, nausea, or vomiting. Monitor potassium levels frequently during treatment.
• Electrolyte imbalance: Since HCTZ is a diuretic, it may sometimes cause low sodium, potassium, or magnesium. Regular monitoring may be needed during treatment.
• Sulfonamide allergy reactions: Rare but serious eye and skin reactions have been reported after starting this combination medication. If you experience any vision change, tell your doctor right away.
• Lupus: While rare, this medication may cause new lupus or worsen existing lupus. Watch out for any rash across your cheeks and nose, or if you are feeling very tired.

Who Should Not Take Lisinopril/Hydrochlorothiazide?

Do not take if you:

• Are pregnant or planning a pregnancy.
• Have a history of angioedema due to ACE inhibitors.
• Are allergic to Lisinopril, Hydrochlorothiazide, or sulfonamides.
• Have severe kidney failure without medical supervision.

When to Consult a Doctor While Taking Lisinopril/Hydrochlorothiazide?

Conditions that require caution or doctor consultation include:

• Kidney problems
• Liver disease
• Diabetes
• Heart failure
• Lupus
• Asthma or allergies
• Low blood pressure
• Recent stroke or heart attack
• Dialysis or blood filtration treatments
• Low-salt diet

If you forget a dose:

• Take it when you remember.
• Skip the Lisinopril/Hydrochlorothiazide missed dose if it is close to your next scheduled dose.
• Do not take two doses at the same time.

Taking more than your prescribed dose can be dangerous and may increase the risk of hypotension. If you notice any unusual symptoms, get medical care or contact the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. Reported Lisinopril/Hydrochlorothiazide overdose symptoms may include:

• Extreme dizziness
• Fainting
• Weakness
• Rapid heartbeat
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Kidney issues

Lisinopril (an ACE inhibitor) and Hydrochlorothiazide (a thiazide diuretic) can interact with other medications. Some combinations should be avoided, while others require close monitoring by a medical expert.

Strictly avoid:

• Aliskiren
• Sacubitril/Valsartan (Entresto)

Use with caution, especially with long-term use:

• Potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics
• Lithium
• Losartan
• Valsartan
• Ibuprofen
• Naproxen
• Diclofenac
• Insulin
• Digoxin

Monitor closely:

• Alcohol
• Calcium supplements or vitamin D
• Contrast agents (iodinated)

Any medication changes should be made only after consultation with a doctor. Treatment choices depend on blood pressure goals, kidney function, side effect tolerance, and other health conditions. Common alternatives include:

• ACE Inhibitors
  • Lisinopril
  • Enalapril/Hydrochlorothiazide
  • Benazepril/Hydrochlorothiazide
  • Ramipril
• Angiotensin Receptor Blockers
  • Losartan/Hydrochlorothiazide
  • Valsartan/Hydrochlorothiazide
  • Olmesartan/Hydrochlorothiazide
  • Telmisartan/Hydrochlorothiazide
• Calcium Channel Blockers
  • Amlodipine
  • Amlodipine/Benazepril
  • Amlodipine/Valsartan
• Diuretics
  • Chlorthalidone
  • Hydrochlorothiazide
  • Indapamide

Ordering Lisinopril/Hydrochlorothiazide online through a network of licensed Canadian pharmacies provides a safe and reliable way to access blood pressure medications. When you buy Lisinopril/Hydrochlorothiazide online from Polar Bear Meds, you can save up to 80 to 90% compared to many U.S. retail pharmacy rates.

Competitive pricing helps make long-term hypertension treatment more accessible and affordable for patients who require ongoing therapy. U.S. customers can order affordable Lisinopril/Hydrochlorothiazide from Canada with a valid prescription, which is reviewed and verified before dispensing to ensure safety and compliance. Polar Bear Meds partners with licensed Canadian and international pharmacies that follow dispensing regulations.

• https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/lisinopril-and-hydrochlorothiazide-oral-route/description/drg-20069073
• https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a601070.html