Can You Take Lisinopril with Alcohol?
Last reviewed: · Source: US FDA drug label database
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Alcohol can increase lisinopril's blood-pressure-lowering effect — occasional moderate drinking is usually tolerated, but heavy drinking raises kidney and cardiovascular risks.
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Is it safe to take Lisinopril with Alcohol?
Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor that lowers blood pressure. Alcohol lowers blood pressure too, especially acutely. Combined, they may cause a greater drop than expected — dizziness, light-headedness, or faintness on standing. Additionally, heavy alcohol use over time raises blood pressure, worsening the cardiovascular risk lisinopril is prescribed to address, and places extra strain on the kidneys. Occasional moderate drinking is generally tolerable for most patients on lisinopril.
How do Lisinopril and Alcohol interact?
Lisinopril inhibits ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme), reducing angiotensin II and aldosterone — lowering blood pressure and reducing cardiac afterload. Alcohol causes acute vasodilation via NO release. The combined hypotensive effect is additive. Chronic heavy drinking activates the renin-angiotensin system, eventually countering antihypertensive therapy.
Data sourced from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) drug label database: OpenFDA lisinopril label — hypotension warnings.
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People with chronic kidney disease, heart failure, anyone prone to falls, and older adults on multiple antihypertensives.
What if I've already taken Lisinopril and Alcohol?
Occasional moderate drinking: monitor for dizziness. If faint, sit down and hydrate. Heavy regular drinking: discuss with GP — your blood pressure target may not be achievable without addressing alcohol intake.
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Not sure if this combination is safe for your specific situation?
HealthLabs.com lets you check liver enzyme or kidney function levels before combining medications long-term — no GP referral needed.
Check your levels at HealthLabs →Always speak to your pharmacist or GP for personalised medical advice. Affiliate link — we may earn a commission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drink alcohol while taking lisinopril?
In moderation, most people tolerate it. Both lower blood pressure, so dizziness on standing is the main risk. Heavy drinking opposes lisinopril's long-term benefit.
Does alcohol affect lisinopril?
Acutely, alcohol enhances the blood-pressure-lowering effect. Chronically, heavy drinking raises blood pressure and worsens cardiovascular risk.
Can lisinopril and alcohol cause kidney problems?
Both can affect kidney perfusion independently. Heavy combined use adds stress to the kidneys, especially in people with pre-existing kidney disease.
How much alcohol can I drink on lisinopril?
Stick to NHS guidelines (14 units/week max, spread across days) and avoid binge drinking. Monitor for dizziness and stay hydrated.