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Lisinopril in Veterinary Medicine - Facts and Information

Lisinopril

Updated on September 10, 2024

Lisinopril is used to dilate blood vessels, aiding in the treatment of both heart failure and hypertension (high blood pressure).

Lisinopril

Summary

Used For:

heart failure, hypertension (high blood pressure)

Brands:

Zestril®, Prinivil®, Qbrelis®

Species:

Dogs and cats

Drug type:

Cardiac

Prescription required:

Yes

Pregnancy and lactation:

Not recommended for use in pregnancy. Use with caution in lactating animals

Side effects:

Gastrointestinal upset (including anorexia, vomiting, and diarrhea), weakness, hypotension
 

General description

Lisinopril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor that works to dilate blood vessels. This action is beneficial in the treatment of both heart failure and hypertension (high blood pressure) in dogs and cats. Lisinopril use in veterinary medicine is considered extra-label.

Uses

heart failure, hypertension (high blood pressure)

How it works

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor that prevents the formation of substances responsible for constricting the blood vessels.

Dosage

Dogs: 0.5 milligrams per kilogram of body weight given by mouth every 12-24 hours. Cats: 0.25-0.5 milligrams per kilogram of body weight given by mouth once daily.

Forms

Lisinopril oral tablets available in 2.5 milligram, 5 milligram, 10 milligram, 20 milligram, 30 milligram, and 40 milligram sizes.

Storage information & handling

Lisinopril should be stored in a childproof container at room temperature in a safe location out of the reach of children and animals.

What results can I expect?

Improvement in blood pressure and clinical signs associated with heart failure.

Missed Dosage

It is best to give the medication as directed without skipping doses. If you miss a dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the normal schedule. Do not give two doses at the same time.

Overdose / acute toxicity

Overdoses may cause lethargy, increased heart rate, vomiting, and hypotension (low blood pressure). Seek veterinary care immediately if you think your pet has had an overdose.

Side effects

*Vomiting *Diarrhea *Anorexia *Cough *Weakness *Hypotension (low blood pressure) *Kidney dysfunction *Low potassium

Contraindications

*Previous sensitivity to ACE inhibitors *Use with caution in patients with renal insufficiency *Use with extreme caution in patients with low sodium and existing red or white blood cell abnormalities *Monitor closely with severe congestive heart failure

Drug interactions

Insulin and oral antidiabetic medication, diuretics (furosemide, spironolactone, hydrochlorothiazide), lithium, other medication to lower blood pressure, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and potassium supplements may all interact with lisinopril. Discuss all medications and possible interactions with your pet’s veterinarian.

Precaution

Avoid use in patients with previous sensitivities to ACE inhibitors. Use with caution in animals with kidney disease, low sodium, or blood cell changes. Avoid use in pregnant animals and use caution in lactating animals.

Sources

Plumb’s Veterinary Drug Handbook

Related Questions

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My dog I heated uses tampon is it an emergency

Unfortunately I'm having a little trouble understand your question as I'm not sure what you mean by "My dog I heated uses tampons..." I'm wondering if Bella ate a tampon or if you wanted to use one on her while she is in heat. I will answer both to be safe. If she ate a tampon, then yes this is a medical emergency and she has to see a vet now. Tampons can easily cause obstructions in the GI tract, especially since they are absorbent and can get large in the stomach from liquid in there. if Bella ate a tampon, you need to take her into a vet immediately to get it removed. If she is on heat, no you cannot use a tampon to control her bleeding. It's not safe to use at all, and are not meant for dogs. You can put a diaper on her to catch any bloody discharge. There are dog specific diapers online and at pets stores, or you can use one made of a human child. Just cut a hole in it for her tail. Hopefully this answers your question. If it doesn't, I'm sorry and ask you post again in the forum for free to it can get answered!

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I'm glad to see that Pippin has been neutered because this eliminates that possibility of hormone-fueled behavioral changes and aggression. Behavioral changes in cats can occur at any point in time, and could be related to anxiety or stressful situations (even rearranging furniture or introducing new people to the home can be stressful to cats). Without a lot more information and observing Pippin's behaviors, I can't precisely tell you why these changes are occurring. It may be best to consult a veterinary behaviorist in your home so that they can observe everything firsthand. You can also try using calming pheromone collars or diffusers (Feliway is one example), and discussing the use of anxiety medication with Pippin's vet. I hope that all goes well!

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Cats can develop what's called diabetic neuropathy, where their hindlegs become progressively weak. The best thing to do is try to get his diabetes under control as quickly as possible. Here is a link describing the conditon: http://www.diabeticcatcare.com/DCCCOK/Neuropathy.htm

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Disclaimer

The information contained on this page is for educational purposes only. This medication should only be given under the advice of a veterinarian who has examined your pet under the laws applicable to your state of residence.