Lisinopril is a widely prescribed medication, and many wonder about its effect on body weight. This article explores lisinopril’s uses and its relationship with weight changes.
What Lisinopril Is Used For
Lisinopril belongs to a class of drugs known as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It works by blocking the action of an enzyme responsible for converting angiotensin I into angiotensin II, a hormone that narrows blood vessels and increases blood pressure. By inhibiting this conversion, lisinopril causes blood vessels to relax and widen, which in turn lowers blood pressure and improves blood flow.
Lisinopril is commonly prescribed to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It also serves as an adjunctive therapy for heart failure, reducing the heart’s workload by allowing blood to flow more easily. Additionally, it is used after a heart attack to improve survival rates and can help prevent kidney problems in individuals with diabetes.
Lisinopril and Weight Changes
Lisinopril is not associated with significant weight loss and is not prescribed as a weight-loss medication. While minor weight loss has been reported in some studies, this is not a consistent or substantial effect. Any modest reduction in weight is likely due to changes in fluid balance rather than a decrease in body fat.
Lisinopril is also not linked to direct weight gain. If weight gain occurs while taking lisinopril, it is usually attributed to other factors. For instance, underlying health conditions like heart failure can lead to fluid retention and swelling in the feet or ankles, which may appear as weight gain. Lifestyle factors, such as a sedentary routine or consuming too much salt, can also contribute to weight changes.
Other medications taken concurrently, like beta-blockers or corticosteroids, might lead to weight gain. In rare cases, angioedema, a serious allergic reaction causing severe swelling, could manifest as apparent weight gain, though swelling, trouble breathing, or abdominal pain are more common indicators. It is important to distinguish between actual fat gain and fluid retention when assessing weight changes.
When to Discuss Weight With Your Doctor
Consult your doctor if you experience any unexpected or significant weight changes, whether a loss or gain, while taking lisinopril. Your doctor can help determine if the fluctuation is related to the medication, the underlying condition, or other factors like lifestyle or co-occurring medical conditions. Tracking your symptoms and weight fluctuations can provide helpful information.
Unexplained rapid weight gain, especially with new or worsening shortness of breath, could indicate progressing heart failure and warrants immediate medical attention. Swelling in the legs or feet, decreased urination, or trouble breathing should also prompt a discussion with your doctor. Do not discontinue lisinopril without consulting your doctor, as stopping the medication abruptly can have adverse health consequences.