It is a common question: which medication is better, Lisinopril or Viagra? Although there are many studies that compare the two medications and their effectiveness, it is still rather difficult to compare them directly because they are used for treating two totally different conditions. Still, since both medications are blood pressure lowering agents they are often prescribed together. In this article we will compare their effectiveness and side effects so that when deciding which one to choose, you can make an informed decision.
What Is The Difference Between Lisinopril And Viagra?
You may wonder what the difference is between Lisinopril and Viagra since they are both blood pressure medications. Here’s a brief answer:
Lisinopril is a medication used to treat high blood pressure and cholesterol levels. It is an ACE inhibitor (short for Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitor).
ACE inhibitors are a class of medications that block the action of an enzyme called angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE). This enzyme helps the body in converting a hormone called angiotensin I into a hormone called angiotensin II. Most people on ACE inhibitors report feeling more relaxed and less stressed.
Viagra is a medication used to treat various medical conditions including impotence or erectile dysfunction, heart disease, and blood pressure. It is a potent vasodilator (a medication that widens blood vessels).
It is important to note that although these medications are similar in many ways, they are still very different and should not be used interchangeably.
When Should You Take Lisinopril And When Should You Take Viagra?
Besides the fact that these medications are used to treat different conditions, you should also bear in mind that Lisinopril and Viagra have very different schedules. That is, you should not take one on the same day as the other.
Lisinopril is generally not recommended for use less than four weeks since the effectiveness of the medication begins to wane after that. You should try to take it at least two weeks prior to any type of surgery or medical procedures so that your body has enough time to adjust to the change.
On the other hand, Viagra can be taken as needed or even taken daily. Although it is not recommended to take it more than once per day, some people report being completely free of symptoms while on this medication. This is because it has a very short half-life and is quickly eliminated from the body. Once the medication is eliminated it cannot be taken back so there’s no risk of overdosing.
How Effective Are Lisinopril And Viagra In Treating High Blood Pressure?
It is a well-established fact that high blood pressure can lead to serious health problems including heart disease and heart failure. Both Lisinopril and Viagra have been shown in studies to be extremely effective at lowering blood pressure. In fact, when used in combination with a beta blocker (such as Ativan or Lopressor), the antihypertensive effects of these medications are even more pronounced.
A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that patients who took both medications experienced a 10.6 mmHg drop in systolic blood pressure (the top number) and a 6.1 mmHg drop in diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number). The study authors concluded that the addition of a CCB (a type of medication used to treat high blood pressure) to Lisinopril and Viagra therapy doubled the blood pressure lowering effect of these two drugs alone. They also reported that there was a 36% reduction in the number of patients who experienced symptoms of high blood pressure (e.g., headaches, dizziness, and dry mouth) while taking the two-drug combination compared to those who took the medication monotherapy. The following medications were in the JAMA study:
- Lisinopril
- Viagra
- Captopril
- Benazepril
- Amlodipine
- Lopressor
- Zolmitriptan
- Methyldopa
- Indapamide
- Reserpine
- Losartan
- Atenolol
- Isradipine
What Is The Most Effective Dose Of Lisinopril?
The most effective dose of Lisinopril is 20 mg per day. If you take this dose for four weeks, you will see the best results. If you take it for more than four weeks, there is no evidence that shows that the benefits out weigh the risks. It is important to note here that although Lisinopril is very effective, it is still a medication and can cause serious side effects. If you experience any of these side effects, you should consult your physician immediately:
Lisinopril can cause a very serious side effect known as angioedema. This is a condition in which bradykinin, a substance that is released during times of stress, triggers an inflammatory response leading to swelling. If you experience this side effect, you should take steps to reduce your body’s exposure to kinin (e.g., by avoiding food sources that contain this substance). Some people who experience this reaction can have their medication stopped and instead treated with a corticosteroid (e.g., Hydrocortisone). The good thing about this condition is that it is very rare and can be adequately treated.
Are There Any Side Effects Associated With Lisinopril?
As mentioned above, Lisinopril is a medication and like all medications, it has side effects. However, as with all medications, the side effects associated with Lisinopril are generally mild to moderate. The most common side effect is dizziness in the beginning of treatment. Some people also experience headache, heartburn, diarrhea, and rash. If you experience any of these side effects, they should not be concerning since they are usually mild and transient. If they are not improving after a few weeks of treatment, discuss them with your physician so that appropriate steps can be taken.
What Is The Most Effective Dose Of Viagra?
The most effective dose of Viagra is 25 mg per day. People who take this dose for four weeks report seeing the best results. However, if you start experiencing problems while on this medication, you should stop taking it and consult your physician. Some of the side effects of Viagra include: headache, jaw ache, nasal irritation, and diarrhea. If you experience these side effects, it may be an indication that you are either allergic to Viagra or that your body does not properly metabolize and eliminate it. In either case, you should stop taking Viagra and consult your physician so that alternative medications can be tried.
If you have tried and tested both these medications and have decided that Lisinopril is better for your body, you should continue to take it. However, if you feel that Viagra is the more effective medication for you or if you have tried it and found that it does not work for you, you should discontinue its use and look for another medication.
Is Lisinopril More Effective Than Viagra In Treating High Blood Pressure?
Although both compounds have been shown to be extremely effective in lowering blood pressure, there are a few differences between them. One of the most important differences is that it takes Lisinopril longer to see the effects of the medication. That is, it takes 1-2 weeks for the full benefits of this medication to be realized. On the other hand, the effects of Viagra are more pronounced and can be seen after just a few days of treatment. In general, if you have tried and tested both of these medications and if you have decided that Lisinopril is the better choice for you, go with it and don’t look back. Still, if you feel that Viagra is the more effective medication for you or if you have tried it and found that it does not work for you, then discontinue its use and find another alternative medication.
Overall, Lisinopril and Viagra are two very effective medications for treating high blood pressure. Still, it is important to remember that they are still medications and should be used with caution. If you are using either of these medications for the first time, it is advisable to use lower doses until you have found the right level for you. Also, it is important to follow the dosing instructions that your physician gives you so that you do not exceed the recommended daily amount of medication.