Zestril

Zestril is the brand name for the generic drug lisinopril, which is a type of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor drug that helps lower high blood pressure. The drug is prescribed to treat several conditions related to the heart and blood vessels of children from age six onwards such as congestive heart failure and high blood pressure. It is also immediately used after a heart attack as the drug reduces the risk of having another heart attack. Interestingly, Zestril is one of the byproducts of the medical world in developing a drug made from the venom of a deadly Brazilian snake.

How It Works?

Our body constantly produces an enzyme called angiotensin, which has a chemical reaction of constricting or narrowing blood vessels in the body that would trigger to increase our blood pressure. ACE inhibitors, such as lisinopril, work by blocking the enzyme that allows the blood vessels to relax and lower blood pressure. Relaxing the blood vessels helps the heart to pump oxygen-carrying blood to the different parts of the body more efficiently.

Zestril comes tablet forms and in different strengths, which include Zestril 2.5 mg, Zestril 5 mg, Zestril 10 mg, Zestril 20 mg, Zestril 30 mg, and Zestril 40 mg. The recommended adult dose of the drug ranges from 2.5 mg to 40 mg everyday depending on the severity of your health condition. Aside from your medical condition, age, medical history, and current medications are also being considered in which dosage or strength of the drug you should take. People who have kidney ailment, for instance, require lower doses of Zestril. The same applies for people who are also taking other blood pressure reducing drugs. That is why it is very important to consult your doctor before resorting to take in the drug.

Zestril can be taken in with or without food. It, however, should be taken during the same time each day like if you had it during noon today, you should again take it at noon tomorrow. This is to maintain an even level of the medicine in the blood. Moreover, the drug should not be taken within two hours after having an antacid, which could bind the drug preventing its absorption in the body. Zestril should also not be taken during the third trimester of pregnancy to avoid health complications for the baby at birth.

It is also important to strictly follow the doctor’s prescription in when taking this medication. As much as possible avoid missing a dose. In case you did, just continue to the next scheduled time of dosing the medicine but never resort to double dosing to make up for the missed dose. Be also patient in feeling the result of the drug, as full effects of the medication would usually take up to two weeks or more.

Just like other drugs, Zestril also has its side effect depending on the resistance and allergic reaction of a person’s body. Most of the side effects, however, are minor and serious ones are less common. Zestril side effects usually include common cough, headache, dizziness, and nausea. Heartburn, anemia, and insomnia may occur but rarely happens. Its dangerous side effects, although very uncommon, is the drop in the infection fighting white blood cells that could be detected by sudden weakness and severe cough. If this happens, stopping the medication and immediately consulting your doctor is advised. Zestril intake should also be stopped if signs of allergic reactions such as hives and swelling of different parts of the body such as the face, lips, tongue, or throat are detected.

In order to prevent serious side effects, buy Zestril only in authorized and licensed drugstores to avoid hazardous counterfeit drugs, which are now spread across the global market.