Tuscaloosa Woman Hospitalized With Serious Side Effect From Common Blood Pressure Medication

Last year, I was diagnosed with high blood pressure, and I was prescribed blood pressure medicine.  However, with me being afraid of medicine, I didn't take it.  I drastically decreased my salt intake and started drinking more water.  Unfortunately, it's not that easy for some people.

You know how various drug commercials always have that disclaimer that names all the different side effects that COULD occur as a result of the medicine's use?  It's usually said quickly and in a way where it seems not so important.  Well, one local woman using the drug Lisenopril is showing us just how real these side effects are.

Catherine Harper says that her face is swollen as a result of the medicine she was given to control her blood pressure.  She encourages consumers to research this effect, and a simple Google search shows a number of other individuals who have suffered the same swelling.

However, I took it a step further and looked up the exact medicine she says she took, and here's what it says:

Side Effects

Dizziness, lightheadedness, tiredness, or headache may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. Dry cough may also occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

To reduce the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position.

Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: fainting, symptoms of a high potassiumblood level (such as muscle weakness, slow/irregular heartbeat).

Although lisinopril may be used to prevent kidney problems or treat people who have kidneyproblems, it may also rarely cause serious kidney problems or make them worse. Your doctor will check your kidney function while you are taking lisinopril. Tell your doctor right away if you have any signs of kidney problems such as a change in the amount of urine.

Lisinopril may rarely cause serious (possibly fatal) liver problems. Get medical help right away if you have any symptoms of liver damage, such as: nausea/vomiting that doesn't stop, loss of appetite, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

As you can see, swelling of the face is a serious side effect.