What is Prinivil®?

Prinivil® is a brand name for the generic drug lisinoproil, manufactured by Merck & Co. The drug belongs to the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor class, drugs that work to reduce the production of angiotensin, an enzyme responsible for causing the blood vessels to narrow. Since Prinivil® decreases the dilation of the blood vessels, it can be used to lower high blood pressure. As the medication also allows the heart to pump blood with less of an effort, it may be combined with other medications to help manage heart failure. In the critical 24-hour window after a heart attack has occurred, the drug may be administered to improve a patient’s chance of survival.

Sold in tablet form, Prinivil® is usually taken once daily with a serving of water. The medication can be taken with or without food at the preference of the patient. When first prescribed, users may start out on a lower dose of the medication and then may gradually have their doses increased as treatment progresses. The pills are sold in various strengths ranging from 2.5 to 40 milligrams.

Common symptoms associated with Prinivil® include headaches, diarrhea, and a runny nose. More dangerous side effects that are also possible include fainting, weight gain, and yellowing of the eyes. Although not considered emergency symptoms, users of Prinivil&reg should generally contact their doctor as soon as possible for guidance. If emergency symptoms such as problems breathing or swelling of the tongue occur, users of the drug will likely require emergency medical attention.

In some instances, Prinivil® may not be the best blood pressure treatment. For instance, those allergic to any ACE inhibitor cannot take this medication. As the drug is possibly fatal to unborn babies, it is usually not given to women who are expecting or planning to become pregnant. If pregnancy does occur while on the drug, women are usually directed to immediately stop taking the drug and consult with their doctor.

Additionally, when patients are discussing taking this medication with their doctors, patients should be upfront about all of their medical conditions. Take individuals who are suffering from diabetes or liver disease, for example. Although these patients may take the medication, they may require additional tests to determine the medication's safety for their personal use, or a dose adjustment may be necessary. All medications taken, including prescriptions and herbal remedies, should also be shared with the doctor. A number of these medications could affect Prinivil&reg, including diuretics and some diabetes medications.

While taking this blood pressure medication, regular checkups with the prescribing doctor are typically done. This will allow the doctor to monitor patient response to Prinivil&reg and the condition for which the medication has been prescribed. The prescribing doctor may also periodically request lab tests be done to determine how the medication is affecting a patient’s blood pressure. Doctors might also encourage adaptation of low-salt or low-sodium lifestyles to increase the medication's effectiveness.