What is Lisinopril?
Lisinopril is a generic drug that belongs to a class of medications called angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It is not a controlled substance and is widely prescribed to manage various cardiovascular conditions. The primary function of Lisinopril is to block the production of angiotensin II, a hormone that causes blood vessels to narrow and increases blood pressure. By inhibiting this enzyme, Lisinopril helps to relax and widen blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily and reducing the workload on the heart.
The yellow, oblong pill with the imprint H149 specifically indicates a 40 mg dosage of Lisinopril. This high-strength dose is typically used for specific treatment plans determined by a healthcare provider.
What is the H149 pill used for?
Lisinopril, including the 40 mg H149 dose, is approved for several therapeutic uses by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The medication can be used alone or in combination with other drugs, such as diuretics, to enhance its blood pressure-lowering effects.
The main approved uses for Lisinopril (H149) include:
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): It is indicated for the treatment of high blood pressure in adults and children aged 6 years and older. Lowering blood pressure helps reduce the risk of serious cardiovascular events like strokes and heart attacks.
- Heart Failure: Lisinopril is used as an adjunct therapy for patients with systolic heart failure to reduce symptoms and improve outcomes. It helps reduce the stress on the heart, allowing it to pump blood more efficiently.
- Post-Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack): For hemodynamically stable patients within 24 hours of a heart attack, Lisinopril is used to improve survival. It helps protect the heart from further weakening after a cardiac event.
Additionally, Lisinopril has been noted for its potential in protecting the kidneys, particularly in individuals with type 2 diabetes and hypertension. By reducing blood pressure and proteinuria (protein in the urine), it can help slow the progression of kidney disease.
Proper identification and manufacturing
If you have a yellow, oblong pill with the imprint H149, it's essential to confirm its identity with certainty. Many pills share similar appearances, but the combination of shape, color, and imprint is unique. The H149 tablet is capsule-shaped and yellow. The manufacturer of this particular imprint and dosage is Solco Healthcare U.S., LLC, and it was manufactured by Zhejiang Huahai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. Always use a professional pill identifier website or consult with a pharmacist to verify your medication, as slight variations can exist between manufacturers.
Comparing Lisinopril dosages
Lisinopril is available in several strengths, each with a unique imprint. This is a common practice among pharmaceutical manufacturers to ensure safety and prevent mix-ups. The following table compares different dosages supplied by Solco Healthcare U.S., LLC, illustrating how the imprint and color change with strength.
| Dosage | Imprint | Color | Shape |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5 mg | H 144 | White to off-white | Capsule-shaped |
| 5 mg | H 145 | Yellow | Capsule-shaped |
| 10 mg | H 146 | Light pink | Capsule-shaped |
| 20 mg | H 147 | Dark pink | Capsule-shaped |
| 30 mg | H 148 | Red | Capsule-shaped |
| 40 mg | H 149 | Yellow | Capsule-shaped |
Important precautions for taking Lisinopril
Before starting or continuing Lisinopril, there are critical precautions to discuss with your healthcare provider. This medication is not suitable for everyone and can have serious interactions or risks.
Precautions include:
- Pregnancy: Lisinopril is contraindicated during pregnancy, as it can cause injury and even death to a developing fetus, particularly during the second and third trimesters.
- Angioedema: Patients with a history of angioedema (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat) related to previous ACE inhibitor use should not take Lisinopril.
- Kidney Function: Lisinopril can cause changes in renal function, and patients with pre-existing kidney disease may require dose adjustments and closer monitoring.
- Hyperkalemia: There is a risk of high potassium levels (hyperkalemia), especially when used with potassium-sparing diuretics or potassium supplements.
- Interactions: Lisinopril can interact with many other medications, including NSAIDs, lithium, and certain diabetes medications. Always inform your doctor of all other drugs you are taking.
Common and serious side effects
While many people tolerate Lisinopril well, side effects can occur. Some are mild and temporary, while others can be more serious and require immediate medical attention.
Common side effects include:
- Dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing up too quickly.
- Headache.
- Persistent, dry cough.
- Fatigue or weakness.
- Nausea or diarrhea.
Serious side effects requiring immediate medical attention include:
- Severe swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (angioedema).
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (signs of liver problems).
- Signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or a sore throat.
- Chest pain or a pounding heartbeat.
- Kidney problems, indicated by decreased urination or swelling.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the yellow, oblong pill with the imprint H149 is the 40 mg dosage of Lisinopril, an ACE inhibitor primarily prescribed to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, and to aid recovery after a heart attack. As a powerful medication affecting the cardiovascular system, its use requires careful medical supervision. While generally well-tolerated, it is crucial to be aware of the potential side effects and precautions, particularly regarding serious conditions like angioedema and risks during pregnancy. Anyone with questions about their medication should consult with a healthcare professional to ensure safe and effective treatment. For more official drug information, including prescribing details and warnings, consult resources like the FDA's DailyMed: https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/.
