Common Questions about Lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril)

Is lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril) a beta-blocker or an ACE inhibitor?

Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor. It is not a beta-blocker. Although beta-blockers treat the same conditions as ACE inhibitors, they work differently and have more uses than ACE inhibitors. Note that ACE inhibitor drug names end in “-pril”, such as benazepril, fosinopril, quinapril etc. 

Is lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril) a diuretic?

No, lisinopril is not a diuretic (water pill). Diuretics cause you to make more urine to get rid of extra salt and water from the body. Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor and it works by relaxing the blood vessels so that blood can flow more easily.

How long does it take for lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril) to work?

Lisinopril starts working within a few hours to reduce blood pressure, but it can take several weeks for the full effect of the medicine to develop. When lisinopril is given for heart failure, it can take weeks, even months, to take effect. 

Does lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril)  lower systolic or diastolic blood pressure?

Lisinopril reduces both systolic and diastolic blood pressure (the upper and lower readings, respectively). 

Is it ok to crush lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril)?

If you need to give a lisinopril tablet to a child, you can crush the tablet and mix it with a small amount of honey, yogurt, or other soft food. You should make sure your child swallows the food and medicine right away without chewing. However, keep in mind that lisinopril is also available in liquid form for easy measurement and administration. Ask your pharmacist if the liquid dosage form is available.  

Is it better to take lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril) in the morning or night?

You can take lisinopril at any time of the day. However, when you first start taking lisinopril, it can cause dizziness, so it may be best to take it at bedtime. 

Can you drink while on lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril)?

You should avoid drinking alcohol while taking lisinopril because mixing alcohol and lisinopril increases the risk of dizziness and fainting. 

Does lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril) make you pee more?

No, lisinopril is not a water pill and does not cause you to make more urine.

Should lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril) be taken on an empty stomach?

Lisinopril can be taken both with and without food. If you experience an upset stomach with lisinopril, it may help to take the medicine with food.

Can I stop taking lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril) if my blood pressure readings at home are good?

You should not stop taking lisinopril without talking to your doctor or health care professional. Stopping lisinopril suddenly can lead to rebound hypertension (a sudden increase in blood pressure). If you do not want to take lisinopril due to side effects, your doctor will advise you on how to safely get off lisinopril over a few weeks and give you a substitute medicine to control your blood pressure.

Does lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril) cause hair loss?

Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor and it can cause hair loss, but this side effect is rare and occurs in only about 1% of people taking the medicine.

What dosages are available for Lisinopril?

Lisinopril is available in the following strengths: 2.5 mg | 5 mg | 10 mg | 20 mg | 30 mg |  40 mg. This drug is available in the following forms: tablet. Make sure to follow your prescription regimen according to your doctor’s instructions.

What is the price of Lisinopril without insurance?

Without insurance, Lisinopril can be as high as $45.85 (generic), but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $8.33 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can also use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not. 

What is the price of Lisinopril with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on Lisinopril—Copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins.

You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for Lisinopril. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medication, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.