Does Lisinopril Cause Tremors? Examining the Evidence and Patient Reports

October 9, 2025 •

4 min read

According to manufacturer prescribing information, tremor is a recognized, albeit rare, adverse reaction to lisinopril. This symptom, which is often underreported and not widely known among healthcare professionals, can be distressing for patients. While a dry cough is the most common side effect of this popular ACE inhibitor, a growing number of anecdotal reports suggest a potential link between lisinopril and tremors.

Quick Summary

Though listed as a rare side effect in prescribing information, many patients report developing hand tremors after starting lisinopril. The tremor often subsides when the medication is stopped, and alternative treatments are available for high blood pressure.

Key Points

Tremor is a Rare Side Effect: Prescribing information lists tremor as a rare adverse reaction to lisinopril.
Patient Reports Suggest a Link: Numerous patient accounts describe developing tremors after starting lisinopril, which resolve after discontinuing the medication.
Many Healthcare Providers Are Unaware: Due to its rarity, the link between lisinopril and tremor is often not on a healthcare provider's radar.
Do Not Stop Medication Abruptly: It is crucial to consult your doctor before stopping lisinopril to avoid serious health consequences.
Alternative Medications Exist: For patients affected by tremors, alternative blood pressure medications like Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs) can be effective.
Documentation is Key: Keeping a detailed record of the onset and frequency of tremors can assist your doctor in making an accurate diagnosis.

Understanding Lisinopril and Its Side Effect Profile

Lisinopril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor commonly prescribed to treat high blood pressure, manage heart failure, and improve outcomes after a heart attack. It works by blocking a substance in the body that constricts blood vessels, thereby relaxing them, lowering blood pressure, and improving blood flow. For many people, lisinopril is an effective and well-tolerated medication, but like all drugs, it can cause side effects.

Common side effects of lisinopril include dizziness, headache, and a persistent dry cough. A more serious, but rare, side effect is angioedema—severe swelling of the face, lips, and tongue that can be life-threatening. Other reported side effects include fatigue, high potassium levels (hyperkalemia), and blurred vision.

The Link Between Lisinopril and Tremors: Rare, But Real

While not as widely known as the lisinopril-induced cough, tremor is listed in the prescribing information as a rare adverse reaction. This means that while it doesn't affect a large percentage of users, it is a recognized, possible outcome of taking the medication. Healthcare professionals may not always be aware of this potential adverse reaction, which can lead to misdiagnosis or delayed recognition of the drug's role. Patient reports have been crucial in highlighting this connection. Individuals have shared stories of developing hand tremors months or even years after starting lisinopril, with the symptom often resolving after discontinuing the medication.

Patient Experiences and Clinical Anecdotes

Anecdotal evidence from patients is a key part of the conversation around lisinopril-induced tremors. Many people mistakenly attribute their tremors to other conditions, such as essential tremor or even Parkinson's disease, only to discover the link to their medication after switching treatments. For example, one patient report detailed developing tremors years into taking lisinopril, which subsided within weeks of discontinuing the drug. Another described how a doctor, unaware of the connection, suggested seeing a neurologist before a successful switch to a different blood pressure medication proved the link. These reports underscore the importance of patient observation and communication with healthcare providers, especially when a side effect is not widely recognized.

Comparison of Lisinopril and Alternative Medications for Hypertension

For patients experiencing tremors or other intolerable side effects from lisinopril, alternative treatments for hypertension exist. These options work through different mechanisms and have different side effect profiles. Discussing these alternatives with a doctor is a critical step in finding a suitable treatment. Below is a comparison of lisinopril with some potential alternatives.


Feature	Lisinopril (ACE Inhibitor)	Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs)	Beta-Blockers (e.g., Metoprolol)
Mechanism	Blocks enzyme that creates a vasoconstrictor.	Blocks a receptor that a vasoconstrictor binds to.	Blocks adrenaline's effect on heart and vessels.
Common Side Effects	Dry cough, dizziness, headache, angioedema.	Dizziness, fatigue, hyperkalemia (less cough risk).	Fatigue, dizziness, slow heart rate.
Tremor Potential	Rare, but noted in prescribing info and patient reports.	Generally not associated, often used as an alternative.	Some (propranolol) are specifically used to treat tremor.
Other Use Cases	Heart failure, post-heart attack.	Heart failure, kidney disease in diabetics.	Essential tremor, migraine prevention.

What to Do if You Suspect Lisinopril Is Causing Tremors

If you believe your tremors are linked to your lisinopril prescription, it is essential to consult your doctor. Do not stop taking your medication abruptly without medical guidance, as this could have serious consequences for your blood pressure management.

Actionable steps to take include:

Maintain an accurate record: Keep a log of when the tremors started, their frequency, and any patterns you notice. This detailed information will be helpful for your doctor.
Discuss alternative options: Speak with your doctor about switching to a different class of blood pressure medication, such as an ARB (like losartan). Patient reports suggest that switching to an ARB often resolves the tremor.
Explore other causes: Be open to your doctor exploring other potential causes for the tremor, as it can be a symptom of various conditions.

Conclusion: A Dialogue with Your Doctor Is Essential

While lisinopril and tremors are a rare combination, the connection is real and validated by both limited clinical data and numerous patient accounts. The key takeaway for anyone experiencing this distressing side effect is the importance of a clear and open dialogue with their healthcare provider. By bringing this observation to your doctor's attention, you can work together to explore alternative medications, such as ARBs, and find a treatment plan that manages your blood pressure effectively without compromising your quality of life. This proactive approach ensures your overall well-being is prioritized. For more information on lisinopril's pharmacology, the National Institutes of Health provides detailed resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, tremor is considered a rare side effect of lisinopril, according to prescribing information. A persistent dry cough, dizziness, and headache are more common side effects.

If you suspect lisinopril is causing your tremors, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor to discuss your concerns. Do not stop taking the medication on your own.

Confirmation often involves a process of elimination and trial. A doctor may first rule out other potential causes. If the tremors started after beginning lisinopril, a trial period on an alternative medication may be recommended to see if the symptoms subside.

Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs), such as losartan, are a common alternative for patients experiencing side effects from ACE inhibitors. Your doctor might also consider other classes of drugs, including some beta-blockers.

Based on patient reports, tremors often begin to subside within a few days to a few weeks after discontinuing lisinopril. The exact timeline can vary for each individual.

Lisinopril-induced tremor is not typically indicative of a more serious underlying neurological condition like Parkinson's. However, because tremors can be a symptom of many health issues, a doctor's evaluation is necessary for an accurate diagnosis.

Yes, other medications can cause or interact to cause tremors. It's crucial to provide your doctor with a complete list of all medications and supplements you are taking to determine the cause of your symptoms.