Lisinopril Dosage: What You Need to Know

If you or someone you know has been prescribed lisinopril, the first question is usually "how much should I take?" The answer depends on why you’re taking it, your age, kidney function, and any other meds you’re on. Below you’ll find the most common dosing ranges, practical tips on how to take the pill, and what to do if you miss a dose.

How Lisinopril Is Usually Dosed

High blood pressure (hypertension): Most adults start with 10 mg once a day. Doctors often increase to 20 mg if blood pressure stays high after a week or two. The max recommended dose is 40 mg daily, but many people stay at 10‑20 mg because it controls pressure well and causes fewer side effects.

Heart failure: The starting dose is lower—usually 2.5 mg to 5 mg once daily. The goal is to reach 10 mg to 20 mg daily, but the increase is slow, typically every 1‑2 weeks, to let the heart adjust.

After a heart attack (post‑MI): Doctors may begin at 5 mg once per day, aiming for 10 mg daily within a few weeks if tolerated.

Kidney disease: If your kidneys aren’t working well, the dose is cut down. A common starting point is 2.5 mg daily, and the max may stay under 20 mg, depending on lab results.

Kids: Lisinopril isn’t often used in children, but when it is, dosing is based on weight—about 0.07 mg per kilogram of body weight once a day. Pediatric dosing is always handled by a pediatric cardiologist or nephrologist.

Tips for Taking Lisinopril Safely

Take lisinopril at the same time every day. Many people choose morning with or without food—food doesn’t affect absorption, so you can decide what works for your routine.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember—unless it’s almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed pill and continue with your regular schedule. Never double up.

Watch for a drop in blood pressure, especially the first few days. If you feel dizzy, light‑headed, or notice a fainting spell, sit or lie down and call your doctor. These symptoms often improve as your body gets used to the medication.

Stay hydrated but avoid excessive salt. A high‑salt diet can blunt lisinopril’s effect, making it harder to control blood pressure.

Common side effects include a dry cough, headache, or mild fatigue. If the cough becomes persistent or you develop swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, seek medical help right away—those could be signs of a serious allergic reaction.

Pregnant or planning to become pregnant? Lisinopril can harm a developing baby, so switch to a safer alternative under your doctor’s guidance.

Regular follow‑up labs are key. Your doctor will check kidney function and potassium levels every few months, especially if you’re on a higher dose.

In summary, lisinopril dosing is flexible but follows clear patterns based on the condition being treated. Start low, go slow, and keep track of how you feel. Talk to your healthcare provider before making any changes, and you’ll get the blood‑pressure‑lowering benefits without unnecessary side effects.