Based on NIH | Can Lisinopril cause blurred vision, and what should I do if this occurs?

Yes, lisinopril can be associated with blurred vision, although it is not among the most common side effects. ^[1] Blurred vision has been listed in official prescribing information for lisinopril-containing products, and it may also occur with combination tablets that include hydrochlorothiazide. ^{[1] [2]}

How lisinopril might lead to blurred vision

• ACE inhibitors like lisinopril can lower blood pressure, and if blood pressure drops too much (especially when starting treatment or increasing the dose), it can cause lightheadedness and transient visual disturbances. ^[3]
• In official labeling, “blurred vision” appears under special senses side effects for lisinopril, suggesting a direct but generally uncommon association. This means the symptom has been observed, even if it’s not frequent. ^[1]
• When lisinopril is combined with hydrochlorothiazide (a thiazide diuretic), transient blurred vision has also been reported with thiazides, which can contribute to visual changes in some users. ^{[4] [2]}

When blurred vision is urgent

• If blurred vision comes on suddenly, is severe, or occurs with eye pain, difficulty reading, halos, or any other change in vision, you should seek prompt medical evaluation because it could signal a serious eye problem. Guidance for lisinopril/hydrochlorothiazide advises contacting a doctor immediately in these scenarios. ^[5]
• Blurred vision can also be a sign of overdose when accompanied by fainting, extreme lightheadedness, drowsiness, confusion, or seizures; this warrants urgent care. ^{[2] [6]}
• Any signs of angioedema such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue, eyes, or trouble breathing are emergencies; stop the drug and get immediate help. Angioedema can occur at any time during ACE inhibitor treatment. ^{[7] [8]}

What to do if blurred vision occurs

• Consider it a potentially medication-related side effect and contact your prescribing clinician to discuss timing, severity, and whether your dose or regimen needs adjustment. Do not stop lisinopril abruptly without medical advice unless you have emergency symptoms (like swelling or breathing issues). ^{[1] [8]}
• If you’re on a combination pill with hydrochlorothiazide and develop new visual symptoms, your doctor may recommend an eye exam to rule out rare but serious eye conditions. ^[5]
• Check your blood pressure at home if you can; very low readings alongside symptoms may prompt your clinician to adjust the dose. This is particularly relevant near the start of therapy or after dose changes. ^[3]

Other possible causes to consider

• Dehydration or electrolyte shifts (more likely with diuretics like hydrochlorothiazide) can contribute to transient visual symptoms. ^[4]
• Non-drug causes include eye strain, uncorrected refractive errors, migraines, dry eye, or blood sugar fluctuations; your clinician can help differentiate these from drug effects. ^[5]

Practical tips while you seek care

• Rise slowly from sitting or lying positions to reduce lightheadedness and related visual blurring. ^[9]
• Avoid driving or using machinery if your vision is not clear until you are evaluated. ^[5]
• Keep a symptom log noting when the blurred vision happens, its duration, associated activities, blood pressure readings, and any new medications or dose changes. ^[5]

Bottom line

• Blurred vision has been reported with lisinopril and with lisinopril/hydrochlorothiazide, but it is generally uncommon. New, persistent, or severe vision changes especially with eye pain or other symptoms should be evaluated promptly. ^{[1] [5]}
• Urgent symptoms such as swelling of the face/tongue or trouble breathing require stopping the medication and seeking emergency care immediately. ^{[7] [8]}