Common BP Medication Triggers Sudden Lip Swelling, ER Visit
An Illinois woman on lisinopril for 10 years developed angioedema—rapid swelling of the lips and mouth—requiring ER care. She was treated with steroids, Benadryl, and Pepcid and recovered after about 12 hours. ACE inhibitors can cause bradykinin buildup leading to swelling, which can occur months or years after starting the medication; stopping the drug usually resolves the reaction, though some severe cases may require ICU or intubation. Risk is higher in older adults and Black patients, and she will not take lisinopril again.
