SGeneric Name: lisinopril (lyse IN oh pril)
Brand Names: Prinivil, Zestril
Brand name for Lisinopril, Zestril is widely acclaimed as an anti hypertensive. Belonging to the group of ACE inhibitors, works magic in controlling high blood pressure. Zestril is also used in treating congestive heart failure, hypertension in patients having hard and thick skin. This drug caters to patients having high blood pressure due to renal crisis. Zestril reduces the risks of cardiac arrest due to high blood pressure. This drug is prescribed to patients just after heart attack to increase survival rate as it cuts short the further weakening of the heart. Zestril is also used for treating kidney problems in some diabetic patients, using insulin to control their diabetes. However, the exact path of functioning of this drug is not yet known. But as a result of research, it is known that Zestril blocks an enzyme that produces a substance responsible for tightening the blood vessels. This results in relaxed blood vessels, controlled blood pressure and proper blood circulation.
Use of Zestril is followed by higher risk of harmful allergic reactions. Inform your doctor if you have experienced allergic reactions like breathing trouble, swollen face, lips or tongue before. Also don’t forget to inform the doctor if you have kidney disease or taking diet with higher or lower level of salt. Individuals suffering from diabetes may need monitored dose of Zestril.
Zestril is included in the FDA pregnancy category D. So it is obvious that intake of this drug during pregnancy have higher chances of harming the growing foetus. Zestril can even cause death of the foetus if taken during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. Effects of Zestril on breast-feeding babies are not yet known. It would be judicious to consult a doctor if you are nursing a baby.
Zestril’s blood pressure reducing effect may cause harm to Children. Always consult a pediatrician before putting your children on such drugs. Although tested on only a few aged people, Zestril is not known to cause harmful effects in patients above 65 years of age.
