Prinzide

(Lisinopril/Hydrochlorothiazide)

Prinzide works by lowering blood pressure using two different medicines. It contains lisinopril, an ACE inhibitor (angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor) that relaxes blood vessels by blocking the formation of angiotensin II, a hormone that normally causes vessels to tighten. This helps blood flow more easily. Prinzide also has hydrochlorothiazide, a thiazide diuretic that helps the kidneys remove excess salt and water from the body. Together, they reduce blood volume and vessel resistance, making it easier for the heart to pump and effectively lowering blood pressure.

Lowering high blood pressure helps reduce the risk of serious health problems such as heart attack, stroke, congestive heart failure, and kidney problems.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Prinzide. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Prinzide:

• Prinzide is taken by mouth once daily, with or without food.
• Try to take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels.
• Because it contains a diuretic or water pill, taking it earlier in the day may help reduce nighttime urination.
• Your dose depends on your medical condition, kidney function, and response to treatment.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is close to your next dose. Do not double up doses.
• Continue taking Prinzide even if you feel well. High blood pressure often has no symptoms, and stopping treatment can cause blood pressure to rise again.

Some mild or common side effects of Prinzide include:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when starting treatment.
• Sore throat, which could be due to a low white blood cell count.
• Stomach pain.
• Blurred vision.
• Fatigue or drowsiness.
• Dry mouth.
• Chest pain.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Prinzide. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat and difficulty breathing, which may indicate angioedema.
• Severe dizziness or fainting due to low blood pressure.
• Muscle cramps or irregular heartbeats related to electrolyte changes.
• Eye pain or sudden vision changes may be related to glaucoma.
• Signs of kidney problems, such as reduced urine output.
• Severe skin reactions, hives, or rash, and shortness of breath from an allergic reaction.
• Pain or tenderness in the upper stomach, pale stools, dark urine, loss of appetite, nausea, weight loss, or yellow eyes or skin. These could be symptoms of a serious liver problem.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Prinzide. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Prinzide, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Kidney problems or are on dialysis.
• Liver disease or abnormal liver function.
• A history of angioedema.
• Heart conditions such as aortic stenosis or congestive heart failure.
• Diabetes, as blood sugar levels may be affected.
• Gout, since hydrochlorothiazide may increase uric acid levels.
• Electrolyte imbalances involving potassium, sodium, magnesium, or calcium.
• Certain populations, including Black patients, may have a higher risk of angioedema and may respond differently to ACE inhibitors.

Boxed Warning

Drugs that act directly on the renin-angiotensin system can cause injury and death to the developing fetus.

When pregnancy is detected, Prinzide should be discontinued as soon as possible.

Prinzide should not be used in patients with a history of angioedema related to previous ACE inhibitor therapy. It is also contraindicated in patients who are allergic to sulfonamide-derived drugs or who have anuria. Prinzide should not be used with aliskiren in patients with diabetes.

Prinzide begins lowering blood pressure within a few hours of the first dose. However, it may take several weeks of regular use to see the full blood pressure-lowering effect. Consistent daily use is important for long-term blood pressure control.

When Prinzide is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as ibuprofen may reduce blood pressure control and affect kidney function.
• Lithium may increase the risk of lithium toxicity.
• Potassium supplements or salt substitutes may increase the risk of hyperkalemia.
• Cholestyramine may reduce the absorption of hydrochlorothiazide.
• Other ACE inhibitors, such as captopril or lisinopril.
• ARBs such as valsartan.

Prinzide is available in several tablet strengths that combine different doses of lisinopril and hydrochlorothiazide. Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dose based on your blood pressure response and tolerance.

It should be stored at room temperature, away from the reach of children or pets.

Prinzide is manufactured by Merck.

Yes. Prinzide is available as a generic medication under the name lisinopril/hydrochlorothiazide.

Do not stop taking Prinzide without talking to your healthcare provider. Stopping suddenly may cause your blood pressure to rise. If the medication needs to be discontinued, your provider will guide you on how to do so safely.

Prinzide should not be used during pregnancy because it can harm the unborn baby. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant.

Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. Lisinopril and hydrochlorothiazide may pass into breast milk, and your healthcare provider will help determine the best option for you and your baby.