There are alternatives to lisinopril. Before your doctor prescribes you a medication, ask about side effects and alternatives and if and when you may need them. Remember, you should always discuss alternative medications with your doctor before stopping medication(s) or if you are experiencing severe symptoms with your medication(s).
If your doctor is prescribing you a medication to lower your blood pressure, they will discuss different options. Aside from an ACE-inhibitor like lisinopril, there are many alternatives. There are also other ACE-inhibitors like benazepril, captopril, enalapril, fosinopril, quinapril etc.
Potential Alternatives to Lisinopril
Diuretics
Diuretics are water pills that remove water and salt that your body does not need. The end result is a lower pressure in your blood vessels. In some cases, your doctor might prescribe you another medication with diuretics. The different types of diuretics include:
- Thiazide (hydrochlorothiazide, chlorothiazide, metolazone, chlorthalidone)
- Loop (furosemide, bumetanide)
- Potassium-Sparing (spironolactone, eplerenone)
Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs)
ARBs block angiotensin in your arteries and veins to lower blood pressure. Angiotensin is a chemical in your body that narrows your arteries and veins, which in turn, makes your blood pressure higher than it should be. These have a similar mechanism of action to ACE-inhibitors, which is why you should not be taking both an ARB and an ACE-inhibitor like lisinopril unless directed by your physician.
Examples:
- Losartan, valsartan, candesartan, olmesartan, telmisartan, irbesartan
Calcium Channel Blockers
Calcium channel blockers prevent calcium from building up in your bloodstream and from entering your heart. This allows your arteries to open without calcium entering. As a result, the heart muscle can relax and allow the heart to pump blood more effectively.
Examples:
- Amlodipine, felodipine, nicardipine, diltiazem
Beta Blockers
Beta blockers block adrenaline, which causes your heart rate to slow down. This allows your blood pressure to remain at a healthy level.
Examples
- Atenolol, metoprolol, carvedilol, bisoprolol, labetalol
Renin Inhibitors
Renin inhibitors slow down renin production in your system to slow down blood pressure. Renin is a substance found in your kidneys that can increase your blood pressure.
Examples
- aliskiren
