Question:

Can Lisinopril be used with Cozaar?

Answer:

Lisinopril is in a class of medications called angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It can be used to treat high blood pressure, treat heart failure in combination with other medications, and to improve survival after a heart attack. It works by altering specific chemicals in the body that tightens blood vessels so blood can move more smoothly and the heart can pump more efficiently.

Cozaar® (losartan) is in a class of medications called angiotensin II receptor antagonists that is used for similar conditions as lisinopril and works to alter similar chemicals in the body to tighten blood vessels so blood can move more smoothly and the heart can pump more efficiently. Since these two agents work very similarly, and effect the same chemicals in the body it can be a case of ‘too much of a good thing’ in some people.

There are side effects that occur with each medication that can decrease blood pressure too much, increase potassium levels in the body, making them too high, decrease kidney function, and an alteration in specific lab values can occur. If these medications are taken together, the person needs to be closely followed by their prescriber for any of these serious side effects.

For more information:

Go to the Pharmacy and Medications health topic.