The Two Popular Medications That Are Often Taken Together To Treat Heart Disease And Diabetes

It is not uncommon for people to take more than one medication. In fact, over half of Americans take at least two, according to the Mayo Clinic. This occurs because different drugs may manage different aspects of a health condition. Additionally, people might have more than one condition, especially if they are older, necessitating the combination of even more drugs. 

It is important to be aware of this since there are risks associated with taking multiple medications. This can include an increased chance of side effects and drug interactions, difficulty keeping track of medication schedules, and over-prescribing, especially when you are seeing multiple healthcare providers who aren’t coordinating care.

Certain combinations of medications are quite common. GoodRx states that the second most common combination of two drugs is lisinopril and metformin. These two are often prescribed together because they have complementary effects that are beneficial in treating diabetes and heart disease.

Lisinopril treats high blood pressure by blocking a substance that tightens blood vessels, which allows them to relax, lowering blood pressure (read this to know how long it takes lisinopril to start working). Lower blood pressure allows more oxygenated blood to get to the heart.

Meanwhile, metformin helps to control blood sugar by reducing the amount that is absorbed from food as well as the amount of sugar manufactured by the liver. They add that it also increases the body’s sensitivity to insulin, a hormone that regulates how much sugar is in the blood. (Here’s how long it takes metformin to start working.)

Lisinopril and metformin are a common combination because the high blood sugar associated with diabetes damages blood vessels and the heart, which, in turn, increases people’s risk of heart disease. By taking both medications, many people with type 2 diabetes can better manage their blood sugar and protect their heart health.

While lisinopril and metformin and often prescribed together, this does not mean that they are completely free from the potential to interact with each other. There is a moderate risk that lisinopril can amplify the blood sugar-lowering effects of metformin. This means that your blood sugar could dip too low. Signs that your blood sugar may be crashing include feeling lightheaded, shaky, or unusually tired. You might also experience a headache, intense hunger, irritability, sweating, trouble concentrating, or a sense of nervousness or confusion.

If you experience low blood sugar when using these medications, you should speak with your physician. You may need to monitor your blood sugar more closely, or your doctor may opt to alter your dose. It is equally important to make sure that your doctors are aware of all the medications that you are taking, including herbs and supplements.