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Lisinopril Food Interactions

Brand names: Prinivil, Zestril

ACE Inhibitor

2
High Risk
🍌 Potassium-Rich Foods (Bananas, Oranges, Potatoes, Tomatoes, Spinach) ⚠️ High Risk

ACE inhibitors cause the kidneys to retain potassium. Eating large amounts of potassium-rich foods on top of this can raise potassium to dangerous levels (hyperkalemia), causing irregular heart rhythm and potentially cardiac arrest.

How it works

ACE inhibitors block aldosterone, which normally causes potassium excretion. Combined with dietary potassium loading, blood potassium rises dangerously.

What to do: Eat a moderate, consistent amount of potassium-rich foods. Avoid potassium salt substitutes (e.g., "lite salt"). Get periodic blood potassium tests as recommended.
Source: FDA Lisinopril Labeling; American Heart Association ACE Inhibitor Guidelines
🧂 Potassium Salt Substitutes ("Lite Salt", "No Salt") ⚠️ High Risk

Salt substitutes replace sodium chloride with potassium chloride. Combined with ACE inhibitors, this can rapidly elevate blood potassium to cardiac-dangerous levels.

How it works

Potassium chloride supplements the drug's potassium-sparing effect, creating additive hyperkalemia risk.

What to do: Do NOT use potassium-based salt substitutes while taking lisinopril or any ACE inhibitor. Use herbs and spices for flavor instead.
Source: FDA Drug Safety Communication; JAMA Case Reports
Disclaimer: Educational purposes only. Based on FDA drug labeling and NIH MedlinePlus. Consult your pharmacist or physician before changing your diet while on medication.