Many people take lisinopril and alcohol in conjunction, which is quite a dangerous combination indeed. While there are many benefits to taking lisinopril alongside alcohol, it is actually contraindicated for those taking cardiovascular medication, and for pregnant women. Also known as Zestril, Prinivil or Qbrelis, lisinopril belongs to the class of cholesterol lowering medications and is classed as an anti-angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor (also called an ACE inhibitor). When combined with alcohol, it tends to raise the blood pressure and thereby the heart rate significantly, causing cardiac arrest.

So how are these interactions with alcohol and what can you do about it? The answer largely depends on the individual substance, although some substances tend to have more serious interactions than others. For example, lisinopril itself has relatively few side effects, although it is better to avoid alcohol while taking it. However, when it does interact with alcohol, it is usually to your advantage to lower your intake rather than to stop taking it all together. When taking Zestril in this manner, the most obvious danger is that it can increase your heart rate and blood pressure to dangerous levels. If this happens, you may need to get to hospital immediately to have your heart monitored.

effects of lisinopril and alcohol

Taking any medication, especially over a long period of time, can cause serious adverse effects to occur. If you’ve just taken lisinopril and alcohol, you may be experiencing dizziness due to the medication. In the unlikely event that you are dizzy because of alcohol, then the problem is probably more serious than just a lack of sleep. Other possible side effects are trouble breathing or passing out, chest pain or discomfort, upset stomach, sweating and a feeling that you might pass out.

These are all possible side effects of drinking and may seem like they’re related to each other. Of course, if you’re drinking and also taking the medication, the problems may compound. Be sure to let your doctor know about any other medications you’re taking, as mixing them may result in undesirable effects. The problem with mixing medication and alcohol, however, is that your body will not recognize that you’re currently taking medication and could possibly react to it all wrong.

Zoloft and alcohol obviously are both highly effective blood pressure medication, designed to lower your heart rate and make your heart stronger. Combined with a high-risk lifestyle, it is entirely possible that they can result in adverse side effects. If you are already at a higher risk for hypertension, you should definitely inform your doctor about your plans to drink. Make sure he is aware of all your other medications, as well. Do not start taking your new prescription until you have fully discussed the issues with your doctor.

If you’ve been told that combining lisinopril and alcohol to control your blood pressure can be dangerous, always speak to your doctor before taking it. This is an issue that can be complex and should never be treated lightly. You may not have a health condition that would make it unsafe for you to use one medication alongside another. Be sure to let your doctor know of any issues you may have so he can change your medication or adjust it to compensate for other factors.

Related: Zoloft And Alcohol