How long does lisinopril stay in your system?

Lisinopril remains active in the body for 24 hours, states Drugs.com. The drug has a half-life of 12 hours, meaning that half of the dose is absorbed in the first 12 hours after it is taken. The drug is eliminated from the body in urine.

Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor drug taken daily to reduce hypertension or high blood pressure. It helps blood flow more freely through blood vessels by relaxing them, according to WebMD.com. Lisinopril may also be prescribed to reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack and has been shown to help protect the kidneys from the effects of adult-onset diabetes, says Drugs.com. Among the most common side effects of Lisinopril are headache, dizziness and cough.