Can i take lisinopril and hydrochlorothiazide together?

If you’re reading this it probably means that you have heard about Lisinopril (LZP) and Hydrochlorothiazide (HZT), two medications that are frequently prescribed for blood pressure management, but the question on your mind is “can both be taken together?” Well, my dear friend let’s find out!

What Are Lisinopril And Hydrochlorothiazide?

Before we dive into the main topic of discussion, let’s give a brief introduction on what LZP and HZT mean individually;

LISINOPRIL

LZP belongs to a class of drugs known as ACE inhibitors. It works by relaxing blood vessels which in turn reduces the workload on the heart. In simpler terms, it makes it easier for blood to flow through your veins thus reducing high blood pressure.

HYDROCHLOROTHIAZIDE

On the other hand, HZT is a diuretic medication commonly referred to as ‘water pills.’ This medication increases urine output which helps to reduce fluid buildup within body organs such as lungs or ankles. By doing so HCT reduces swelling/fluid buildup while improving breathing difficulties associated with heart failure.

Can Both Medications Be Taken Together?

Now without further ado; YES! Both medications can be taken at once under proper medical guidance – Phew! That was an easy answer right? Well not exactly…

Hold up cowboy/girl before you head over to pop those pills here are some crucial factors that need consideration:

MEDICAL HISTORY

Before combining LZP and HCT ensure none of these applies:

  • Have had severe allergic reactions resulting in swelling of face/tongue.
  • Your kidney function has been severely affected.
  • Recently went through dialysis procedure
  • You’ve experienced dry coughs/or persistent diarrhea after taking an ACE inhibitor.

OTHER MEDICATIONS

Some medications can interact negatively with LZP/HCT. If you’re currently taking medicines such as ciclosporin (used in organ transplant), potassium-sparing diuretics or lithium, ensure you inform your doctor first.

PREGNANCY AND BREASTFEEDING

LZP and HCT should never be taken during pregnancy planning or lactation period without first consulting a healthcare professional who will determine the necessary precautions/actions needed to avoid potential risk factors for both mother and child.

So How Exactly Should I Take Lisinopril And Hydrochlorothiazide?

If an approved physician has recommended combining these two medications under their supervision, here’s how best to administer them:

  • Most pills conform to once-daily dosage times either morning(after waking up) or evening(before going to bed).
  • It’s best advised to take medication on an empty stomach with water.
  • Don’t forget that missing out on prescribed doses affects treatment thus try maintaining consistency by setting reminders if need be.

Incorporate those tips whenever following through with medical prescriptions, ladies and gentlemen!

What Happens In The Event That I Overdose?

Jumping straight into the answer; SEEK EMERGENCY MEDICAL ASSISTANCE IMMEDIATELY! but don’t stop there – it is advisable that at least someone knows which substances were consumed before seeking medical assistance since this eases quick identification of potential harm associated with poisoning from overdose cases.

Dosage-overload can lead to side effects like muscle cramps, dizziness/fainting spells among many others which we’ll discuss next;

What Are The Possible Side Effects Of Taking Both Medications?

A warning note: Please note not everyone experiences similar side effects even when taking consistent dosages. Therefore having prior knowledge concerning possible reactions educates one well enough especially if something uncommon occurs thus saving yourself precioustime by seeking medical advice immediately.

LISINOPRIL SIDE EFFECTS

The common but mild side effects of LZP include:

  • Dry/unproductive coughs.
  • Dizziness which occurs mostly during the first week after starting to take it.
  • Headaches
  • An upset stomach i.e vomiting, diarrhea or constant feeling of being bloated.
  • Feeling tired is also another side effect.

Severe but rare reactions may include;

  • Swelling on your face and inside your mouth/throat (Allergic reaction alert!)
  • A significant change in the color of urine resulting from decreased kidney functions known as acute renal failure.

#### HYDROCHLOROTHIAZIDE SIDE EFFECTS

In contrast HCT’s common yet minor reactions are:

  • Constipation/Diarrhea/nausea/vomiting. These are bodily responses observed when there’s a sudden increase/decrease in water levels within our bodies henceHCT only accentuates this process leading to fluid dehydration so it’s important you drink enough fluids intake always paired with healthy eating habits.[1]

Again severe signs like Lack/Loss of muscle strength or urinary difficulties require swift medical attention

Wait Isn’t There Anything Positive About The Two Medications?

Yes! (Phew we knew there had to be something). Let’s focus now on few perks that come with using these medications if taken accordingly under prescribed conditions:

REDUCED STROKE RISK

Studies have shown people taking ACE inhibitors tend to have at least half stroke risk reduction compared to those who do not use them.[2]

MANAGES DIABETES

Research has proven LCP/HZT combination largely helps reduce insulin resistance thus managing sugar levels effectively among diabetes patients (‘Double Whammy Good News’ alert)![3]

Final Words

As they say; knowledge Is power ladies and gentlemen! This article has given an overview of both the negative/positive aspects associated with taking LZP/HCT . If any doubts arise, always seek professional advice & medical guidance concerning your medication regimen.

So Are you ready to give Hydrochlorothiazide and Lisinopril another shot (You’ll make it trust me)? Stay safe!

(Sidenote: I hope this funny tone was not taken as trivializing-saltivity is advised when handling serious issues such as medications-induced.)

[1]- Always heed to a nutritionalist’s dietary instruction alongside prescribed medicines.

[2]- Study conducted by Whelton.PK et al where he estimated people who used ACE inhibitors had stroke risk reduced 40% than nonusers. Accessed from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11016594 on June 9th.

[3] – Facts obtained from research published in Journal Of Clinical Pharmacy And Therapeutics regarding blood sugar management treatment through combined use of HZT-LCP therapy for diabetes patients Accessed at https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/jcpt.12809

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