Indications
Zestoretic is oral medication used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and fluid retention. By controling high blood pressure, Zestoretic helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. It contains a combination of two drugs: lisinopril and hydrochlorothiazide.
Lisinopril belongs to a class of medications called ACE inhibitors and helps to lower blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels and reducing the workload of the heart. Hydrochlorothiazide belongs to a class of medications called diuretics or "water pills" that help control blood pressure by getting rid of excess salt and water. The combination of these two drugs together works by relaxing blood vessels to lower blood pressure and improve blood flow.
Uses and Dosage
Zestoretic is typically taken as a tablet by mouth, with or without food, as directed by a doctor. It is usually taken once daily in the morning, and if the medication causes frequent urination. Take the tablet at least 4 hours before bedtime to avoid disrupting sleep.
The dosage for Zestoretic (lisinopril/hydrochlorothiazide) can vary based on the individual's medical condition and response to treatment and may also be adjusted over time. The recommended starting dose is 10 mg lisinopril/12.5 mg hydrochlorothiazide once daily. The dose may be increased after 2-3 weeks of therapy based on the patient's blood pressure response, up to a maximum dose of 80 mg lisinopril/50 mg hydrochlorothiazide once daily.
If taking bile acid-binding resins to lower cholesterol, the Zestoretic tablet should be taken at least 4 hours before or after those medications. The appropriate dosage is determined by one's medical condition and response to treatment.
To ensure the maximum benefit from Zestoretic, take the tablet at the same time each day. Even if feeling well, keep taking the medication as prescribed, as most people with high blood pressure do not experience symptoms. If a person's condition does not improve, or if it worsens, such as with an increase or persistence of high blood pressure readings, consult a doctor for further evaluation.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Zestoretic (Lisinopril/HCTZ):
- Cough
- Depressed mood
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Headache
- Mild skin itching or rash
- Nausea
- Upset stomach
- Vomiting
Serious Side Effects of Zestoretic (Lisinopril/HCTZ):
- Chest pain
- Chills
- Constipation
- Drowsiness
- Extreme thirst
- Eye pain or vision problems
- Feeling lightheaded
- Feeling restless
- Feeling unsteady
- Fever
- Headache
- Increased urination
- Irregular heartbeats or fluttering in your chest
- Leg cramps
- Little or no urination
- Loss of movement
- Loss or coordination
- Mouth sores
- Muscle weakness
- Nausea
- Numbness or tingling
- Sore throat
- Tingly feeling
- Trouble swallowing
- Vomiting
- Weakness
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
Form and Strength
Zestoretic (Lisinopril/HCTZ) is available in the following forms and strength:
Zestoretic: Tablet
- 20/25 mg
- 20/12.5 mg
Lisinopril/HCTZ: Tablet
- 20/25 mg
- 20/12.5 mg
- 10/12.5 mg
Caution
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Do not use Zestoretic during pregnancy or breastfeeding because it may harm the fetus or newborn.
- Kidney or liver problems: The medication may affect kidney or liver function, so caution and monitoring may be necessary for individuals with these conditions.
- Allergy: Individuals who are allergic to lisinopril, hydrochlorothiazide, or other sulfonamide-derived drugs may not be able to take Zestoretic.
- Diabetes: The medication may affect blood sugar levels, so individuals with diabetes may need to monitor their blood sugar more closely.
- Dehydration: As with all diuretics, which include hydrochlorothiazide, Zestoretic may cause dehydration, so it's important to drink plenty of fluids.
- High blood pressure: Zestoretic is primarily used to treat high blood pressure, but caution should be taken with individuals who have severely elevated blood pressure or acute heart failure.
- Hypercalcemia: Zestoretic may cause elevated calcium levels in the blood, which can lead to kidney stones and other complications in individuals with hyperparathyroidism or other calcium-related disorders.
- Electrolyte imbalances: Zestoretic may cause electrolyte imbalances, such as low levels of sodium, chloride, and/or potassium, which can lead to muscle cramps, weakness, and other symptoms.
- Lithium: Zestoretic may interact with lithium, a medication commonly used to treat bipolar disorder. Caution should be taken when combining these medications.
- Other medications: Zestoretic may interact with other medications, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), other blood pressure medications, and certain antibiotics.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Should Zestoretic be taken before or after food?
It does not matter if you take Zestoretic before or after food. Keep taking Zestoretic for as long as your doctor tells you to, it is a long-term treatment.
When is the best time to take Zestoretic?
If Zestoretic causes you to urinate more frequently, it is best to take it at least 4 hours before your bedtime to prevent having to get up to urinate.
How long does Zestoretic take to work?
You might notice a change in your blood pressure within hours of taking Zestoretic (lisinopril / hydrochlorothiazide). But it can take about 2 to 4 weeks to see the full blood pressure-lowering effect from this medication.
Resources
- https://www.rxlist.com/zestoretic-drug.htm
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-5591/zestoretic-oral/details
- https://www.drugs.com/zestoretic.html
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2009/019888s045lbl.pdf
- https://www.goodrx.com/zestoretic/what-is
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/zestoretic
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