Drug Name

Zestoretic (Lisinopril/Hydrochlorothiazide)

Drug Uses

Zestoretic is used for lowering high blood pressure.

How to use

Use Zestoretic as directed by your doctor.

• Take Zestoretic by mouth with or without food.
• If you take cholestyramine or colestipol, ask your doctor or pharmacist how to take it with Zestoretic.
• Take Zestoretic on a regular schedule to get the most benefit from it.
• Taking Zestoretic at the same time each day will help you remember to take it.
• Continue to use Zestoretic even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses.

Drug Class and Mechanism

Zestoretic is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor and thiazide diuretic combination. It works to lower your blood pressure by removing excess fluid from the body and causing blood vessels to relax or widen.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Zestoretic, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Storage

Store Zestoretic at room temperature, between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C). Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Keep Zestoretic out of the reach of children and away from pets.

Warnings/Precautions

Do not use Zestoretic if:

• you are allergic to any ingredient in Zestoretic;
• you have a history of angioedema (swelling of the face, lips, throat, or tongue);
• you have a history of kidney artery narrowing;
• you are unable to urinate;
• you are taking dofetilide or ketanserin;
• you are in your second or third trimester of pregnancy.

• Zestoretic may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting. These effects may be worse if you take it with alcohol or certain medicines. Use Zestoretic with caution. Do not drive or perform other possibly unsafe tasks until you know how you react to it.
• Zestoretic may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting; alcohol, hot weather, exercise, or fever may increase these effects. To prevent them, sit up or stand slowly, especially in the morning. Sit or lie down at the first sign of any of these effects.
• Drink plenty of fluids while taking Zestoretic and avoid engaging in activities that cause excessive sweating. Dehydration, excessive sweating, vomiting, or diarrhea may lead to a fall in blood pressure. Contact your health care provider at once if any of these occur.
• Diabetes patients - Zestoretic may raise your blood sugar. High blood sugar may make you feel confused, drowsy, or thirsty. It can also make you flush, breathe faster, or have a fruit-like breath odor. If these symptoms occur, tell your doctor right away.
• A persistent, unproductive cough may occur. Tell your doctor if this occurs. Recovery is rapid when the medicine is stopped.
• Patients who take medicine for high blood pressure often feel tired or run down for a few weeks after starting treatment. Be sure to take your medicine even if you may not feel normal. Tell your doctor if you develop any new symptoms.
• Zestoretic may not work as well in black patients. They may also be at greater risk of side effects. Contact your doctor if your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse.
• Tell your doctor or dentist that you take Zestoretic before you receive any medical or dental care, emergency care, or surgery.
• Zestoretic may cause you to become sunburned more easily. Avoid the sun, sunlamps, or tanning booths until you know how you react to Zestoretic. Use a sunscreen or wear protective clothing if you must be outside for more than a short time.
• Lab tests, including blood electrolytes, blood pressure, and kidney function, may be performed while you use Zestoretic . These tests may be used to monitor your condition or check for side effects. Be sure to keep all doctor and lab appointments.
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Zestoretic may cause birth defects or fetal death if you take it while you are pregnant. If you think you may be pregnant, contact your doctor right away. Zestoretic is found in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking Zestoretic.

Possible Side Effects

Check with your doctor if any of these most common side effects persist or become bothersome:

• coughing; diarrhea; dizziness; headache; lightheadedness; nausea; persistent nonproductive cough; tiredness; vomiting.

• severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); confusion; difficulty swallowing; fainting; fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat; fever; hoarseness; increased hunger or thirst; muscle cramps; muscle weakness; severe dizziness or lightheadedness; shortness of breath; sore throat; unusual or severe drowsiness; unusual stomach pain; yellowing of the skin or eyes.

More Information

Zestoretic is to be used only by the patient for whom it is prescribed. Do not share it with other people.
If your symptoms do not improve or if they become worse, check with your doctor.