⚠️

Lisinopril + Lithium

MAJOR — Use With Caution

FDA-documented interaction. ACE inhibitors can significantly raise lithium levels. Monitor lithium levels closely when starting, adjusting, or stopping ACE inhibitors.

Evidence level: STRONG

What this interaction means

Lisinopril (an ACE inhibitor for blood pressure) can increase lithium levels in your blood by changing how your kidneys handle sodium and lithium. This is important because lithium has a very narrow safe range.

How it works (mechanism)

ACE inhibitors reduce aldosterone and angiotensin II, decreasing renal sodium and lithium excretion. Can increase lithium levels significantly. FDA lithium label warns about ACE inhibitors.

Practical advice

If you take lithium and are prescribed lisinopril, get your lithium level checked within 1-2 weeks. Any dose change in lisinopril requires rechecking lithium levels. Stay well hydrated.

Timing

Take Lisinopril at the same time daily. Lithium follows its prescribed schedule. ACE inhibitors can be taken with or without food. If you develop a persistent dry cough, report it to your prescriber.

Risk factors

Higher risk for: those with renal impairment, hyperkalemia risk, concurrent potassium-sparing diuretics or potassium supplements, elderly, dehydrated patients, or those with bilateral renal artery stenosis.

Symptoms to watch for

Nausea, vomiting, tremor worsening, drowsiness, confusion, muscle weakness, increased urination or decreased urination

What to tell your doctor

Request lithium level monitoring when starting or adjusting ACE inhibitor. Discuss alternative blood pressure medications that may have less effect on lithium (e.g., amlodipine).

Safer alternatives

ACE inhibitor interactions often involve potassium levels or blood pressure effects. Ask your doctor about ARBs as alternatives, or adjust the timing of the interacting substance. Monitor potassium levels and blood pressure regularly.

Frequently asked questions

Can I take Lisinopril and Lithium together?

Lisinopril (an ACE inhibitor for blood pressure) can increase lithium levels in your blood by changing how your kidneys handle sodium and lithium. This is important because lithium has a very narrow safe range.

When should I take Lisinopril vs Lithium?

Take Lisinopril at the same time daily. Lithium follows its prescribed schedule. ACE inhibitors can be taken with or without food. If you develop a persistent dry cough, report it to your prescriber.

What symptoms should I watch for if I combine Lisinopril and Lithium?

Nausea, vomiting, tremor worsening, drowsiness, confusion, muscle weakness, increased urination or decreased urination

Are there safer alternatives to combining Lisinopril with Lithium?

ACE inhibitor interactions often involve potassium levels or blood pressure effects. Ask your doctor about ARBs as alternatives, or adjust the timing of the interacting substance. Monitor potassium levels and blood pressure regularly.

What should I tell my doctor about taking Lisinopril and Lithium?

Request lithium level monitoring when starting or adjusting ACE inhibitor. Discuss alternative blood pressure medications that may have less effect on lithium (e.g., amlodipine).

Explore more interactions

Or browse the full interaction database (121,000+ pairs).