Kaiser Foundation is a prominent healthcare organization that has been providing quality health care services to its members for many years. The foundation is recognized for its extensive network of medical centers and hospitals across the United States, where patients can access various medical services, including pharmacy services. Its pharmacy services have been vital in providing affordable, accessible, and trustworthy prescription drugs to its members. Kaiser Foundation covers a wide range of medication categories, including pain relievers, antibiotics, antidepressants, and antihypertensive drugs. One of the popular medications offered by Kaiser Foundation is Lisinopril. Lisinopril is an oral medication used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and heart failure. It is an ACE inhibitor (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme) that works by relaxing blood vessels to improve blood flow, which reduces blood pressure. Uses of Lisinopril Lisinopril is primarily used to treat hypertension. High blood pressure is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide and can lead to serious health complications such as heart attack, stroke, and kidney failure. Lisinopril reduces blood pressure by blocking the activity of ACE, an enzyme that narrows blood vessels and increases blood pressure. Lisinopril is also used in the treatment of heart failure, a condition where the heart cannot pump blood effectively. This medication helps in reducing the amount of work your heart has to do to pump blood and improve heart function. Additionally, it is used to prevent and treat kidney damage in people with diabetes. Dosage of Lisinopril The dosage of Lisinopril prescribed by your doctor will depend on the severity of your hypertension or heart failure. The recommended starting dose for hypertension is 10 mg daily, while the maximum dose is 80 mg daily. For heart failure, the usual dose is 2.5 to 5 mg once a day, which can be increased to 20 to 40 mg per day. It is essential to take the medication precisely as directed to achieve optimum outcomes. Side Effects of Lisinopril Like other medications, Lisinopril has some side effects. Some of these side effects include cough, dizziness, headache, fatigue, nausea, and diarrhea. These side effects are usually mild and go away over time. In rare cases, Lisinopril can cause more severe side effects such as allergic reactions, swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, and difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. Interactions of Lisinopril It is essential to inform your doctor of any other medications you are taking as they may interact with Lisinopril. Some medications that may interact with Lisinopril include diuretics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and potassium supplements. These medications can increase the risk of side effects or reduce the effectiveness of Lisinopril. Generic of Lisinopril Lisinopril is the generic name of the medication and is available under different brand names. This medication is also available in a combination of drugs that include Lisinopril and hydrochlorothiazide, commonly known as Zestoretic. Demographic of Lisinopril Lisinopril is suitable for use in both adults and children aged six years and above. However, its use is contraindicated in pregnant women as it can cause harm to the developing fetus. Conclusion Lisinopril is a widely used medication for hypertension and heart failure. It is essential to remember that the medication may have some side effects, is available under different brand names, and may interact with other medications. It is crucial to take the dosage as directed by your doctor and inform them of any other medications you are taking. Kaiser Foundation is a reliable healthcare organization that provides access to this and many other essential medications. With their affordable and accessible pharmacy services, they are making healthcare more accessible to Americans.