Lippincotts Drugs to Know for the NCLEX

lisinopril
lye-SIN-oh-pril
Prinivil, Zestril
Pharmacologic class: ACE inhibitor
INDICATIONS
Hypertension
Adjunct treatment for heart failure
Hemodynamically stable patients within 24 hours of acute MI to improve survival
ACTION
Causes decreased production of angiotensin II and suppression of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone
system.
ADVERSE REACTIONS
CNS: dizziness, headache, fatigue, paresthesia
CV: orthostatic hypotension, hypotension, chest pain
EENT: nasal congestion
GI: diarrhea, nausea, dyspepsia
Metabolic: hyperkalemia
Respiratory: dyspnea; dry, persistent, tickling, nonproductive cough
Other: angioedema
NURSING CONSIDERATIONS
Monitor blood pressure frequently. If drug doesn’t adequately control blood pressure, diuretics may
be added.
Don’t confuse lisinopril with fosinopril or Lioresal. Don’t confuse Zestril with Zostrix, Zetia,
Zebeta, or Zyrtec. Don’t confuse Prinivil with Proventil or Prilosec.
PATIENT TEACHING
Instruct patient to avoid salt substitutes containing potassium. May cause hyperkalemia.
Inform patient that light-headedness can occur. Tell him to rise slowly to minimize this effect.
Tell patient to use caution in hot weather and during exercise. Lack of fluids, vomiting, diarrhea, and
excessive perspiration can lead to light-headedness and syncope.
Advise patient to report signs and symptoms of infection, such as fever and sore throat.