Qbrelis Side Effects: What to Expect and When to Call Your Doctor

Updated:

February 24, 2026

Author:

Peter Daggett

Summarize this blog with AI:

Learn about common and serious Qbrelis side effects. Find out what to expect when starting Lisinopril oral solution and when you should call your doctor.

Qbrelis Side Effects: What You Need to Know

Starting a new medication can feel overwhelming, especially when you're not sure what to expect. If you or your child has been prescribed Qbrelis (Lisinopril oral solution), it's important to understand the possible side effects — and to know when something needs medical attention.

This guide covers the most common side effects of Qbrelis, the serious ones to watch for, and when you should call your doctor right away.

What Is Qbrelis?

Qbrelis is a liquid form of Lisinopril, an ACE inhibitor. It's used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, and to improve survival after a heart attack. Because it's a liquid, Qbrelis is often prescribed for people who can't swallow pills — including children 6 years and older. For more details, read What Is Qbrelis? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know.

Common Side Effects of Qbrelis

Most people tolerate Qbrelis well, but like all medications, it can cause side effects. These are the most commonly reported:

1. Dry Cough

A persistent, dry cough is one of the most well-known side effects of ACE inhibitors like Qbrelis. It happens in up to 10-15% of patients. The cough is usually not dangerous but can be annoying. It typically goes away after stopping the medication.

2. Dizziness

Dizziness can occur, especially when you first start taking Qbrelis or when your dose increases. This happens because the medication lowers your blood pressure. To reduce dizziness, stand up slowly from sitting or lying positions.

3. Headache

Some patients report headaches when starting Qbrelis. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the medication over the first few weeks.

4. Fatigue

Feeling more tired than usual is common when starting blood pressure medication. Your body needs time to adjust to a lower blood pressure. If fatigue persists for more than a few weeks, let your doctor know.

5. Nausea and Diarrhea

Stomach-related side effects like nausea and diarrhea can happen, though they're usually mild and temporary. Taking Qbrelis with food may help.

6. Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension)

Because Qbrelis lowers blood pressure, some people may experience blood pressure that drops too low. Symptoms include lightheadedness, fainting, and feeling weak. This is more common in patients who are dehydrated or taking diuretics.

Serious Side Effects: When to Call Your Doctor

While most side effects are mild, some require immediate medical attention. Call your doctor or go to the emergency room if you experience any of the following:

Angioedema (Swelling)

This is the most dangerous side effect of ACE inhibitors. Angioedema causes swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. It can make it hard to breathe or swallow. Call 911 immediately if you notice swelling in these areas. This risk increases with certain drug combinations — learn more about Qbrelis drug interactions.

High Potassium (Hyperkalemia)

Qbrelis can raise potassium levels in your blood. Symptoms of high potassium include muscle weakness, tingling, irregular heartbeat, and nausea. Your doctor should check your potassium levels regularly while you take Qbrelis.

Kidney Problems

ACE inhibitors can affect kidney function in some patients. Signs of kidney problems include changes in how much you urinate, swelling in your feet or ankles, or unusual tiredness. Your doctor should monitor your kidney function with blood tests.

Severe Low Blood Pressure

If you feel extremely dizzy, faint, or can't stand up, your blood pressure may be too low. This needs medical attention. It's more likely to happen if you're also taking diuretics (water pills) or have been vomiting or have diarrhea.

Liver Problems

In rare cases, ACE inhibitors have been linked to liver damage. Contact your doctor if you notice yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe stomach pain.

Severe Skin Reactions

Very rarely, Qbrelis can cause serious skin reactions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Seek medical care immediately if you develop a widespread rash with blistering or peeling skin.

Important Warning About Pregnancy

Qbrelis carries a boxed warning — the most serious type of FDA warning — about use during pregnancy. Qbrelis can cause injury or death to an unborn baby. If you become pregnant while taking Qbrelis, stop taking it and contact your doctor immediately.

Side Effects in Children

Qbrelis is approved for children 6 years and older for treating high blood pressure. Children may experience the same side effects as adults, including cough, dizziness, and low blood pressure. Parents should monitor their child closely and report any unusual symptoms to the prescribing doctor.

Tips for Managing Common Side Effects

  • Dry cough: Talk to your doctor. If the cough is bothersome, they may switch you to an ARB (a different type of blood pressure medication). See alternatives to Qbrelis.
  • Dizziness: Stand up slowly. Stay hydrated. Avoid alcohol.
  • Fatigue: Give your body 2-4 weeks to adjust. If it doesn't improve, tell your doctor.
  • Nausea: Take Qbrelis with food. Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
  • Low blood pressure: Drink plenty of water. Avoid standing for long periods in hot weather.

What to Tell Your Doctor Before Starting Qbrelis

Before you start Qbrelis, make sure your doctor knows about:

  • All other medications you take (see our guide on Qbrelis drug interactions)
  • Any history of angioedema or allergic reactions to ACE inhibitors
  • Kidney or liver problems
  • If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
  • If you have diabetes

How to Get Qbrelis

If your doctor prescribes Qbrelis, you may need help finding a pharmacy that has it in stock. Qbrelis is a specialty medication and not all pharmacies carry it. Use MedFinder.com to search for pharmacies with Qbrelis available near you.

For more help, check out our guides on how to find Qbrelis in stock, how to check pharmacy stock, and how to save money on Qbrelis.

The Bottom Line

Most Qbrelis side effects are mild and manageable. The most common ones — dry cough, dizziness, headache, and fatigue — often improve over time. However, serious side effects like angioedema, high potassium, and kidney problems need immediate medical attention.

Always take Qbrelis exactly as prescribed, and don't stop taking it without talking to your doctor first. To learn more about how this medication works, read How Does Qbrelis Work? and stay up to date on Qbrelis availability in 2026.

What is the most common side effect of Qbrelis?

A persistent dry cough is the most well-known side effect of Qbrelis and other ACE inhibitors. It affects up to 10-15% of patients and usually goes away after stopping the medication.

Can Qbrelis cause dangerous swelling?

Yes. In rare cases, Qbrelis can cause angioedema — swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat that can make it hard to breathe. This is a medical emergency. Call 911 immediately if this happens.

Should I stop taking Qbrelis if I get side effects?

Do not stop taking Qbrelis without talking to your doctor first. Suddenly stopping blood pressure medication can cause a dangerous spike in blood pressure. Your doctor can help you manage side effects or switch to a different medication safely.

Does Qbrelis cause high potassium?

Qbrelis can raise potassium levels in the blood, a condition called hyperkalemia. Symptoms include muscle weakness, tingling, and irregular heartbeat. Your doctor should monitor your potassium levels with regular blood tests while you take Qbrelis.

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