Description
Common use
Zestril belongs to the class of drugs called ACE inhibitors. It blocks the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, lowers arteriolar resistance and increases venous capacity, increases cardiac output, lowers renovascular resistance. It is used in the treatment of congestive heart failure, hypertension and to improve survival after a heart attack.
Dosage and direction
Zestril is taken exactly as prescribed by your physician with or without food at the same time each day. Wait for more than to hours after taking antacid to take your dose of Zestril as the first may inhibit the absorption of the last.
Precautions
Avoid drinking alcohol. Warn your doctor if you are pregnant as this medication is able to cause harm to an unborn baby. Do not use salt substitutes or potassium supplements when you are treated with this medication. Drinking of big volumes of water is recommended while using Zestril. Do not use this medication if you have a history of allergy to lisinopril or to any other ACE inhibitor. While taking this medication blood pressure should be checked on a regular basis.
Contraindications:
• Hypersensitivity;
• Pregnancy;
• angioedema in history.
Possible side effect
Zestril may increase the level of potassium which in some rare cases may cause such side effects as muscle weakness or extremely slow heartbeat. Besides allergic reactions (hives, swallowing, rush) Zestril may cause headache, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, diarrhoea, dry cough, blurred vision. If any side effects become acute inform your doctor immediately. Pay attention to changes in the volume of your urine or vision abilities, loss of consciousness, impotence, chest pain and consult your doctor also. Sometimes Zestril may cause severe liver disorders so if you have jaundice, yellow eyes, dark colour of urine let your doctor know about it.
Drug interaction
Zestril should not be taken with potassium supplements or diuretics that conserve potassium. Combination of Zestril with injectable gold may cause facial flushing, nausea, vomiting and hypotension.
Missed dose
If you missed a dose take it as soon as you remember, but if it is almost time of your next intake just skip the missed dose. Do not try to compensate for a missed dose by taking an extra one.
Overdose
If you suspect that you took too much of Zestril and feel extremely dizzy or light-headed, or fainting seeks for immediate medical attention.
Storage
The medication should be stored at room temperature 15-30 C (59-86 F) in a light-resistant box.
