Lisinopril

What is Lisinopril?

Lisinopril is a prescription medication used in dogs and cats for the treatment of heart failure, high blood pressure, certain types of heart valve disease and some forms of kidney disease. Lisinopril is not FDA approved for use in veterinary medicine; however, it is a commonly accepted practice for veterinarians to prescribe this medication for dogs and cats. Lisinopril requires a prescription from your veterinarian, and is sold per tablet.

For:

Dogs and Cats

Benefits:

• Treats heart failure, high blood pressure, and some forms of kidney disease in dogs and cats
• Dilates the veins and decreases fluid retention

How it Works:

Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor used to dilate blood vessels in the treatment of high blood pressure, congestive heart failure and some types of kidney disease in dogs and cats.

Cautions:

Do not stop giving this medication without your veterinarian's approval. A missed dose can result in a sudden rise in blood pressure.

Brand Name:

Zestril (AstraZeneca), Prinivil (Merck)

Generic Name:

lisinopril

What is the most important information I should know about lisinopril:

Lisinopril is a prescription medication not FDA approved for veterinary use; however, it is a commonly accepted practice for veterinarians to use this medication in dogs and cats. Lisinopril is available as 10mg and 20mg tablets. The usual dose in dogs is 0.2mg/lb 1 or 2 times a day. The usual dose in is cats 0.1 to 0.2mg/lb once a day.

What is lisinopril:

Lisinopril is an angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. ACE inhibitors decrease fluid retention by dilating veins. Lisinopril is used to treat heart failure, high blood pressure, certain types of heart valve disease, and some forms of kidney disease in dogs and cats. Lisinopril may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this guide.

What should I discuss with my veterinarian before giving lisinopril to my pet:

Tell your veterinarian if your pet has liver disease, lupus, or blood abnormalities. Tell your veterinarian if your pet is pregnant or nursing.

How should this medication be given:

Give this medication exactly as directed by your veterinarian. If you do not understand the directions ask the pharmacist or veterinarian to explain them to you. Lisinopril can be given with or without food. Do not abruptly stop giving lisinopril. Store lisinopril at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep this medication away from children and pets.

What happens if I miss giving a dose:

Give the missed dose as soon as you remember during the same day. However, if you don't remember until the next day, skip the dose you missed and give only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not give a double dose of the medication.

What happens if I overdose the pet:

Seek emergency veterinary medical treatment. Symptoms of lisinopril overdose include weakness or collapse.

What should I avoid while giving Lisinopril to my pet:

Lisinopril should not be used in animals allergic to it or other ACE inhibitors. Use lisinopril with caution in animals with liver disease. Do not use in pregnant females. Lisinopril may be used in nursing animals. Use with caution in animals with very low blood sodium levels.

What are the possible side effects of Lisinopril:

For dogs and cats, if any of the following serious side effects occur, stop giving lisinopril and seek emergency veterinary medical attention; an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; swelling of the lips; tongue or face; hives). Side effects are rare but may include loss of appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea. Lisinopril could cause low blood pressure or kidney dysfunction indicated by increased thirst and/or changes in urination. Talk to your veterinarian about any side effect that seems unusual or bothersome to the animal.

What other drugs will affect Lisinopril:

Tell your veterinarian if your pet is being given azathioprine, COX 2 inhibitors (Deramaxx or Previcox), cyclosporine (Atopica), diuretics (furosemide, Salix), beta blockers (atenolol), and other blood pressure medications, insulin, NSAIDS (Rimadyl or Novox), Potassium salts, aspirin (Vetrin), and sulfonamides (SMZ/TMP). Drugs other than those listed may also interact with lisinopril. Talk to your veterinarian or pharmacist before giving any prescription or over the counter medicines including vitamins, and supplements.

Where can I get more information:

Your pharmacist has additional information about Lisinopril written for health professionals that you may read. Call your veterinarian for medical advice about any side effects to your pet. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.