Lisinopril otc
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers for "lisinopril otc"
Lisinopril: Over-the-Counter Availability and Clinical Efficacy
Introduction to Lisinopril
Lisinopril is a long-acting angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor commonly used to treat conditions such as hypertension, congestive heart failure, and acute myocardial infarction (AMI). It is known for its efficacy in reducing blood pressure and improving heart function. However, it is important to note that lisinopril is not available over-the-counter (OTC) and requires a prescription from a healthcare provider.
Clinical Efficacy in Acute Myocardial Infarction
Lisinopril has been extensively studied for its benefits in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). The GISSI-3 trial demonstrated that starting lisinopril within 24 hours of AMI symptoms significantly reduced overall mortality and severe ventricular dysfunction. This effect was observed both when lisinopril was used alone and in combination with transdermal glyceryl trinitrate (GTN). Additionally, diabetic patients with AMI showed a notable decrease in 6-week mortality when treated with lisinopril, highlighting its importance in high-risk populations.
Hypertension Management
Lisinopril is also effective in managing hypertension. A controlled multicenter study compared lisinopril, hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ), and their combination in patients with mild to moderate essential hypertension. The study found that lisinopril alone was more effective than HCTZ alone in reducing blood pressure, and the combination of lisinopril and HCTZ was even more efficacious. This makes lisinopril a valuable option for patients requiring robust blood pressure control.
Congestive Heart Failure Treatment
In the treatment of congestive heart failure (CHF), lisinopril has shown significant benefits. Studies comparing lisinopril with captopril, another ACE inhibitor, found that both drugs improved exercise tolerance and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) . However, lisinopril was particularly effective in patients with renal impairment, where captopril was not as beneficial. This makes lisinopril a preferred choice for elderly patients and those with renal issues.
Impact on ACE2 Levels and COVID-19 Considerations
Recent research has explored the impact of lisinopril on ACE2 levels, the receptor for SARS-CoV-2. A study on healthy mice indicated that oral lisinopril increased ACE2 protein levels in various tissues, which are relevant to COVID-19 transmission and pathogenesis. This finding suggests a complex interaction between ACE inhibitors and the body's response to viral infections, warranting further investigation.
Conclusion
Lisinopril is a highly effective ACE inhibitor for treating hypertension, congestive heart failure, and acute myocardial infarction. Its benefits are well-documented in various clinical trials, making it a critical medication in cardiovascular care. However, it is not available over-the-counter and must be prescribed by a healthcare provider. The potential impact of lisinopril on ACE2 levels also opens new avenues for research, especially in the context of COVID-19.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic