LINOPRIL 20mg Tablets

What is LINOPRIL 20mg

LINOPRIL 20 mg contains the active ingredient Lisinopril, an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. It is prescribed to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), heart failure, and to improve survival after a heart attack. By lowering blood pressure, it reduces the risk of strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. Lisinopril also helps protect kidney function in patients with diabetes and proteinuria.

• Drug Class: ACE inhibitor
• Mechanism: Reduces production of angiotensin II, a chemical that narrows blood vessels
• Outcome: Vasodilation and lowered blood pressure
• Common Uses: Hypertension, heart failure, post-myocardial infarction, diabetic nephropathy

This medication is often part of a comprehensive treatment plan including diet, exercise, and other medications when necessary.

How to use LINOPRIL 20mg

Take LINOPRIL 20 mg as directed by your healthcare provider, typically once daily at the same time each day. It can be taken with or without food.

• Administration: Oral, swallow whole with water
• Timing: Take it at the same time daily to maintain stable blood levels
• Food: Does not require meals, but consistency helps absorption
• Missed Dose: Take as soon as remembered unless it’s near the next dose—do not double up

Continue to take the medication even if you feel well. High blood pressure often has no symptoms.

Mode of Action LINOPRIL 20mg

Lisinopril blocks the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor, by inhibiting the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE). Angiotensin II narrows blood vessels and stimulates the release of aldosterone, which increases fluid retention.

• Vasodilation: Blood vessels relax and widen
• Reduced Aldosterone: Less sodium and water retention
• Afterload Reduction: Decreases the workload on the heart in heart failure
• Nephroprotection: Lowers pressure in kidney filtration units, helpful in diabetic patients

This mechanism makes LINOPRIL effective not just for lowering blood pressure but also in protecting heart and kidney function.

LINOPRIL 20mg Interactions LINOPRIL 20mg

LINOPRIL may interact with other medications and substances. Inform your healthcare provider about all prescriptions, OTC drugs, and supplements you're using.

• Potassium Supplements or Potassium-Sparing Diuretics (e.g., spironolactone): Increases risk of hyperkalemia
• NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen): May reduce antihypertensive effect and harm kidneys
• Diuretics (e.g., furosemide): May cause excessive blood pressure drop
• Antidiabetic Drugs: Enhanced blood sugar-lowering effect may occur
• Other Antihypertensives: Increased risk of hypotension

Avoid alcohol as it can enhance the blood pressure–lowering effect and lead to dizziness or fainting.

Dosage of LINOPRIL 20mg

LINOPRIL 20 mg is a common maintenance dose. However, your doctor may adjust the dose depending on your condition and treatment goals.

• Hypertension (Adults): Initial dose typically 10 mg/day, maintenance 20–40 mg/day
• Heart Failure: Initial 2.5–5 mg/day, increased to a maximum of 40 mg/day as tolerated
• Post-Myocardial Infarction: Initiate within 24 hours, start at 5 mg
• Elderly or Renally Impaired: Lower initial doses may be necessary

Always follow your doctor’s dosing instructions, and never adjust the dose without consulting your healthcare provider.

Possible side effects of LINOPRIL 20mg

While LINOPRIL is generally well tolerated, some people may experience side effects, particularly when starting the medication.

• Common: Dizziness, dry cough, headache, fatigue
• Less Common: Low blood pressure (especially after the first dose), chest pain, nausea
• Serious: Angioedema (swelling of face, lips, tongue), high potassium levels (hyperkalemia), kidney dysfunction
• Rare: Liver function changes, rash, taste disturbance

Notify your doctor immediately if you develop swelling, difficulty breathing, or signs of high potassium like muscle weakness or irregular heartbeat.

LINOPRIL 20mg Contraindications LINOPRIL 20mg

LINOPRIL should not be used in certain situations. Always inform your doctor of your full medical history before beginning treatment.

• History of angioedema related to previous ACE inhibitor therapy
• Known hypersensitivity to lisinopril or other ACE inhibitors
• Pregnancy (especially during the second and third trimesters)
• Severe renal artery stenosis
• Concurrent use with aliskiren in patients with diabetes

Caution is required in patients with renal impairment, electrolyte imbalances, or volume depletion.

Storage of LINOPRIL 20mg

• Store at room temperature (15°C–30°C or 59°F–86°F)
• Keep tablets in the original blister packaging to protect from moisture
• Store in a dry place away from direct sunlight
• Keep out of the reach of children and pets

Do not use this medication past the expiration date. Dispose of any unused tablets according to local regulations or pharmacy guidelines.