Can I Take an Extra Lisinopril If My Blood Pressure Is High?

Many patients taking lisinopril ask, can I take an extra lisinopril if my blood pressure is high? It’s a reasonable question, especially when a sudden spike in blood pressure causes concern or discomfort. But taking extra medication without medical advice can be risky. This guide will explain how lisinopril works, why you shouldn't take extra doses on your own, and what to do if your blood pressure is high.

What Is Lisinopril?

Lisinopril is a prescription medication used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, and to protect the heart after a heart attack. It belongs to a group of medications called ACE inhibitors (angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors).

It works by:

• Widening blood vessels so blood flows more easily
• Helping the body get rid of extra water and salt
• Reducing the workload on the heart

Most people take lisinopril once a day, and it starts to work within an hour, with full effects in about 6 hours. The medicine stays in your system for up to 24 hours.

Can I Take an Extra Dose If My Blood Pressure Is High?

No. You should never take an extra lisinopril tablet without talking to your doctor. Taking more than prescribed can cause serious side effects, including:

• Blood pressure that drops too low (hypotension)
• Fainting, dizziness, or falls
• Kidney problems
• High potassium levels, which can be dangerous
• Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat (angioedema)

Lisinopril is not like a pain reliever that you can take as needed. It builds up in your system over time. Extra doses may push your blood pressure too low, especially if you've already taken your regular dose that day.

Why a High Reading Happens

It’s common for blood pressure to go up from time to time. You might notice a spike when:

• You’re feeling anxious or stressed
• You’ve had too much caffeine or alcohol
• You’re in pain
• You didn’t take your medication as prescribed
• You used a home monitor incorrectly

One high reading doesn’t always mean you’re in danger. That’s why doctors recommend checking it again after 5–10 minutes, sitting calmly and quietly.

What to Do If Your Blood Pressure Is High

If you get a high reading, follow these steps:

• Sit down and relax: Breathe slowly and deeply for a few minutes
• Recheck your blood pressure: Take it again after resting for 5–10 minutes
• Check your recent activities: Think about caffeine, exercise, stress, or pain
• Check for symptoms: Are you having chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness?
• Call your doctor: If your reading remains high (above 160/100) or if you’re not sure what to do

What You Should Not Do

Avoid the following when dealing with high readings:

• Don’t take a second lisinopril dose unless your doctor tells you to
• Don’t mix it with other medications unless directed
• Don’t panic—stress can raise your pressure more
• Don’t rely on a single reading—check again later

When It’s an Emergency

Go to the emergency room or call 911 if your blood pressure is very high (over 180/120) AND you have:

• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Severe headache
• Blurred vision
• Confusion
• Numbness or weakness in your face, arms, or legs

How to Keep Blood Pressure Under Control

Managing high blood pressure is a daily routine, not a one-time fix. These tips can help:

1. Take Your Medication Regularly

• Take lisinopril at the same time every day
• Use a pillbox or set a reminder
• Let your doctor know if you miss a dose—do not double up

2. Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet

• Cut down on salt (aim for less than 1,500 mg a day)
• Eat more fruits and vegetables
• Choose whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats
• Limit processed and packaged foods

3. Be Physically Active

• Aim for 30 minutes of moderate activity most days
• Start slow and build up if you’re not used to exercise
• Even walking, gardening, or stretching counts

4. Manage Stress

• Try deep breathing or meditation
• Get enough sleep—7 to 9 hours each night
• Talk to someone you trust when you feel overwhelmed

5. Limit Alcohol and Quit Smoking

• Limit alcohol to 1 drink a day for women, 2 for men
• Quit smoking—it raises your blood pressure and damages arteries

Tips for Monitoring at Home

• Use a reliable upper-arm cuff monitor
• Sit quietly for 5 minutes before checking
• Keep your feet flat, back supported, and arm at heart level
• Check at the same times each day, usually morning and evening
• Record your readings to share with your doctor

When Your Doctor May Adjust Your Dose

Your provider may increase or decrease your lisinopril dose based on:

• Your blood pressure over time
• Kidney function and lab results
• Side effects you report
• Other health conditions or medications

Never adjust the dose on your own. Lisinopril’s effects build gradually, and changes need to be done carefully with monitoring.

Conclusion

If you’ve ever asked, can I take an extra lisinopril if my blood pressure is high?—now you know the answer: don’t do it without talking to your doctor. One high reading doesn’t always mean danger, and adding more medication without guidance could make things worse. Instead, manage your pressure daily through healthy habits, monitor it consistently, and follow your provider’s plan. When in doubt, reach out. You don’t have to face high blood pressure alone—and you don’t have to take risks with your health to feel safe.

References

1. American Heart Association. "Understanding Your Medications: ACE Inhibitors." 2023.
2. Weir MR, et al. “Lisinopril Pharmacology.” Journal of Clinical Hypertension, 2018.
3. Nguyen T, et al. “Risks of Lisinopril Overuse.” Nephrology Dialysis Transplantation, 2020.
4. Patel H, et al. “Electrolyte Changes and ACE Inhibitors.” Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 2019.
5. American College of Cardiology. “Blood Pressure Guidelines.” 2022.