Where is the 5 mg of Prinivil and Lisinopril?

Patricia L. Rowley,

Thanks for your question.

Lisinopril is the generic form of Prinivil.  This is an Angiotensin Converting Enzyme inhibitor used in the treatment of high blood pressure.  This drug blocks the production of a hormone which results in salt and water loss in the kidney, as well as dilation of blood vessels, both of which cause a drop in blood pressure.

As long as the packaging states that this is lisinopril at the dosage you normally take, there is no need to be concerned.  Pharmacists often change the company that they obtain their generic drugs from.  It sounds like you received "unit dose" packaging for this drug, which means that each pill has been individually wrapped.  This method is often used in hospital settings where drugs are dispensed one dose at a time.  This minimizes the chance of error. 

If you are opposed to this method, you should discuss with your pharmacist the possibility of obtaining your medication in the common way, 30 tablets in a pill bottle.  If the answer is no, you always have the option of using a different pharmacist.

Best wishes.

Martin Cane, M.D.