and what is a beta blocker anyway?
Is Lisinopril a Beta Blocker or ACE Inhibitor?
Question posted by aquanaut on 27 March 2014
Last updated on 30 March 2014 by suzanne66
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3 Answers
Official Answer
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Nov 11, 2020.
Lisinopril belongs to a class of drugs called ACE inhibitors. Other examples of ACE inhibitors include captopril, enalapril, ramipril and trandolapril. They are used mainly in the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure) and heart failure. They are also used in some people with diabetes, for some forms of kidney disease, and after a heart attack to help protect the heart.
ACE inhibitors (angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors) work by preventing the body from creating a hormone known as angiotensin II - a powerful vasoconstrictor. They do this by blocking (inhibiting) a chemical called angiotensin-converting enzyme. This plays a major role in the regulation of blood pressure and reducing pre/after load on the heart which improves the ability to pump blood around the body for the patient.
Beta blockers are another class of drugs that are used to treat a variety of conditions including high blood pressure, angina, and abnormal heart rhythms, heart failure, heart attack anxiety and migraine. Examples of beta blockers include metoprolol, propranolol, bisoprolol and nebivolol.
Beta blockers work by blocking beta receptors which stops adrenaline from stimulating these receptors. Beta receptors are found on cells of heart muscles, smooth muscles, airways, arteries, kidneys and other tissues. The site of action is important - for example, if beta-adrenergic receptors in the heart are blocked, the force and rate of the heartbeat is reduced. If beta receptors on smooth muscle are blocked they can reduce tremor associated with anxiety. In the eye they can reduce the intraocular pressure caused by glaucoma.
Different beta-blockers are used in different circumstances. There are slight differences between the individual beta-blockers. For example, some beta blockers block beta receptors in the heart only, there are differences in side-effects, as well as how many times a day some beta-blockers are taken.
For more information on beta blockers see:
https://www.drugs.com/drug-class/beta-adrenergic-blocking-agents.html
For more information on Ace Inhibitors see:
https://www.drugs.com/drug-class/angiotensin-converting-enzyme-inhibitors.html
Chyk41
28 March 2014
Lisinopril is a ACE Inhibitor and beta blockers are adrenergic blocking agents. They block sympathetic stimulation of the heart.
kaismama
27 March 2014
An ACE inhibitor. Beta blockers all seem to end in ol
ncgator1
28 March 2014
Lisinopril is in the large drug class of ACE Inhibitors. ACE stands for "angiotensin converting enzyme". They are commonly used for high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, after a heart attack or a stroke, and to help protect the kidneys in patients with diabetes. ACE inhibitors all work the same way, but each medication may have different side effects. A common side effect seen with most ACE inhibitors is a persistent, dry, cough; if that bothers you talk to your doctor about it. Other side effects may include headache, dizziness, or fatigue; these side effects may go away after a short while. Other common examples of ACE inhibitors include: benazepril, captopril, enalapril, and fosinopril. ACE inhibitors should NOT be used if you are pregnant (or planning a pregnancy) or breast-feeding. Most ACE inhibitors are now available in generic formulation, which makes them very affordable, be sure to ask your doctor or pharmacist about this!
Beta blockers are also used for high blood pressure and other heart and vessel conditions. Common examples include atenolol, propranolol, metoprolol, and nadolol. Beta blockers should not be used in people with a slow heart rate or a heart block. They can also lead to side effects like headache, feeling drowsy, upset stomach or swelling. Beta blockers - like the ACE inhibitors - are also available generically to help save $ on prescription costs. Both of these drug classes are usually very safe, they have been on the market for a long time, and your doctor or pharmacist can answer other questions specifically for your condition! They will know these drugs very well! Hope that helps!
Related topics
heart failure, high blood pressure, heart attack, lisinopril, congestive heart failure, hypertension, beta blocker
Further information
- Lisinopril uses and safety info
- Lisinopril prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Lisinopril (detailed)
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