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Lisinopril

Prescription

ACE Inhibitor

Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team

Species

Dog, Cat

Brands

2 available

Interactions

2 documented

Formulations

Mechanism of action

Lysine analog of enalaprilat that directly inhibits angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), reducing angiotensin II and aldosterone production without requiring hepatic activation (unlike enalapril). Reduces afterload, preload, and cardiac remodeling.

At a glance

Class

ACE Inhibitor

Schedule

Prescription

Storage

Store at room temperature below 30°C, protect from moisture

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Alternative to enalapril/benazepril for heart failure and hypertension

Dose

0.25–1 mg/kg

Route

Frequency

q24h

🐈

Cat

Used for hypertension and proteinuric nephropathy

Dose

0.25–0.5 mg/kg

Route

Frequency

q24h

Educational reference only

This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

Formulations

💊

Other — 2

Strength

—

Strength

—

Storage

Store at room temperature below 30°C, protect from moisture

Safety

Monitoring parameters

Blood pressureBUN/creatinineSerum potassiumUrine protein:creatinine ratio

Educational reference only

Interactions

Moderate — 2

Meloxicam

moderate

NSAID reduces prostaglandin-mediated renal perfusion, opposing ACE inhibitor renal protection. AKI risk in dehydrated patients.

Management: Monitor BUN/creatinine at 5-7 days. Ensure hydration. Lowest effective NSAID dose.

Furosemide

moderate

First-dose hypotension risk when adding ACE inhibitor to loop diuretic (volume-depleted, activated RAAS).

Management: Start ACE inhibitor at low dose. Monitor blood pressure.

Educational reference only

Brands

Other markets

Prinivil

Zestril

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Lisinopril?

Lisinopril is a ace inhibitor used in pets. Lysine analog of enalaprilat that directly inhibits angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), reducing angiotensin II and aldosterone production without requiring hepatic activation (unlike enalapril). Reduces afterload, preload, and cardiac remodeling.

›What is Lisinopril used for in pets?

Lisinopril is used in veterinary medicine for: Alternative to enalapril/benazepril for heart failure and hypertension; Used for hypertension and proteinuric nephropathy.

›What is the Lisinopril dose for dogs?

For dogs, Lisinopril is typically dosed as follows — Alternative to enalapril/benazepril for heart failure and hypertension: 0.25–1 mg/kg PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.

›What is the Lisinopril dose for cats?

For cats, Lisinopril is typically dosed as follows — Used for hypertension and proteinuric nephropathy: 0.25–0.5 mg/kg PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.

›Does Lisinopril need a prescription?

Yes. Lisinopril is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

Educational reference only