I was on Lisinopril for little over a month in 2005. My doctor c...

I was on Lisinopril for little over a month in 2005. My doctor changed my prescription to Cozaar and I have been much better on it--my blood pressure even responded better. Yes, the Cozaar is much more expensive because it is name brand, but quality of life is of value. It has taken a year for most of the Lisinopril caused problems to subside. I can walk without feeling like I am going to pass out and I don't cough and wheeze like I did. I do still have some lung problems--I cough more than I used to but it is minor and I can live with it compared to what I was like with the full blown Lisinopril cough (TB Ward, anyone?). I still get leg cramps and have to get up at night to walk around a bit to ease them. I find if I drink milk the cramps are less often and much less intense. Possibly calcium tablets and/or Vitamin D would have the same effect. I am not depressed any more. I was terribly down when I was on the Lisinopril. I recommend talking and talking and talking to your doctor about the depression and when it started rather than letting them put you on an anti-depressant which just masks the problem. And if a PCP puts you on an anti-depressant, make sure you see a licensed therapist. Anti-depressants need to be used in conjunction with therapy. I still have the aching joints but they are controllable with heat and, once in a while, Tylenol. My eyesight was affected to an extent but even that has gotten better. I got to the point that I couldn't thread a needle. But I can see to thread a needle! I just wanted to let those of you still on Lisinopril or who have been switched from Lisinopril and are still experiencing the side effects that they do get better. I still remember the morning I got up to get ready for bed and wondered what was wrong with me--I had energy and was actually looking forward to the day. It was (and is) a wonderful feeling after a year of existing and just trying to get through the day so I could go home and go to bed.