Sold under the brand names Zestril and Prinivil, lisinopril is mainly prescribed for lowering high blood pressure. It prevents conversion of the naturally occurring enzyme angiotensin to an active form in the body. Angiotensin is part of the body's blood pressure regulating system, but angiotensin narrows blood vessels and thus elevates blood pressure. Lisinopril has several side effects, sometimes including effects on blood platelets, the blood particles which help with clotting.
Most Common Side Effects
Lisinopril can cause dizziness, headaches, anxiety, sleep disorders, drowsiness, nausea, sexual dysfunction and nasal congestion.
Thrombocytopenia
Rarely, lisinopril causes thrombocytopenia, or an abnormally low number of platelets.
Identification
Thrombocytopenia occurs when platelets are lost from circulation too rapidly to be replaced effectively by the bone marrow. Lisinopril can also cause a drop in red blood cells, which are produced by bone marrow as well.
Skin Symptoms
People with low platelet counts may have no symptoms. In contrast, they may bruise easily, or find tiny red dots on their lower legs.
Bleeding Symptoms
Low platelet counts also can cause gum bleeding and also internal bleeding, which shows as blood in the stool or urine. People with this condition can find it difficult to stop bleeding from injuries.
Solution
People taking lisinopril should periodically have blood tests checking platelet count, and should see a doctor for tests if experiencing any symptoms of platelet side effects. If lisinopril is significantly affecting blood counts, a different drug will be prescribed instead.
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