Lisinopril side effects women
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Lisinopril Side Effects in Women
Introduction to Lisinopril and Its Usage
Lisinopril is a commonly prescribed angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor used to treat hypertension and heart failure. While effective in managing blood pressure, it is important to understand the side effects associated with its use, particularly in women.
Gender Differences in Lisinopril-Induced Cough
Higher Incidence of Cough in Women
One of the most notable side effects of lisinopril is a persistent cough. Research indicates that women are significantly more likely to experience this side effect compared to men. In a study involving patients with mild to moderate hypertension, 12.6% of women reported a cough when treated with lisinopril, compared to only 4.4% of men1. This gender disparity was not observed during treatment with nifedipine or placebo, suggesting a specific reaction to lisinopril.
Influence of Smoking Status
The same study also highlighted that nonsmokers reported an increase in cough more frequently than smokers when taking lisinopril1. This suggests that smoking status may influence the likelihood of experiencing this side effect.
Lisinopril and Hormonal Effects in Women with PCOS
Impact on Androgen Levels
Lisinopril has been studied for its effects on hormonal levels in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). A prospective study found that treatment with lisinopril significantly decreased serum free testosterone levels in hypertensive women with PCOS, although it did not affect sex-hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) levels3. This indicates that lisinopril may influence androgen levels independently of SHBG.
Cardiometabolic Risk Factors
Further research compared the cardiometabolic effects of lisinopril between sisters of women with PCOS and their unrelated peers. The study found that while lisinopril effectively lowered blood pressure in both groups, its impact on insulin sensitivity, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), fibrinogen, and uric acid was more pronounced in women without a family history of PCOS4. This suggests that the cardiometabolic benefits of lisinopril may vary based on genetic predisposition to PCOS.
Conclusion
Lisinopril is an effective medication for managing hypertension, but it comes with notable side effects, particularly in women. The incidence of lisinopril-induced cough is significantly higher in women than in men, and this side effect is more common among nonsmokers. Additionally, lisinopril can affect androgen levels in women with PCOS, potentially offering some hormonal benefits. However, its cardiometabolic effects may be less pronounced in women with a family history of PCOS. Understanding these gender-specific side effects is crucial for optimizing treatment plans and improving patient outcomes.
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