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Compare Atacand vs. Avapro

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Candesartan (Atacand) and irbesartan (Avapro) are both angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) used to treat high blood pressure. However, there are some differences between the two. Candesartan is also used to lower the risk of worsening heart failure in adults, while irbesartan is specifically used to slow the worsening of kidney disease from diabetes. Candesartan can be taken once or twice daily, whereas irbesartan is typically taken once daily. Both medications are available in lower-cost generic forms. Common side effects of candesartan include upper respiratory tract infections, dizziness, and back pain, while irbesartan commonly causes dizziness, tiredness, and diarrhea. Both medications should be avoided during pregnancy and can raise potassium levels, but irbesartan is noted to be less effective in controlling blood pressure in Black people.

  • Candesartan (Atacand)
    Irbesartan (Avapro)
  • Candesartan (Atacand)
    Irbesartan (Avapro)

  • Summary of Atacand vs. Avapro

    Summary for ARB
    Prescription only

    Candesartan (Atacand) is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). It's one of the first-choice medication for treating high blood pressure in adults and children. It can also help lower the risk of worsening heart failure in adults. Candesartan (Atacand) comes as a tablet that's taken by mouth, typically once or twice daily. Most people don't experience many side effects while taking this medication, but some can include upper respiratory tract infections, headache, and back pain.

    Summary for ARB
    Prescription only

    Irbesartan (Avapro) is a medication that's used to treat high blood pressure; it's also used to treat diabetic kidney disease. It's a part of a drug class called angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARB). The dosage for irbesartan (Avapro) can differ if you've kidney problems or are taking diuretics ("water pills"). Common side effects include dizziness and tiredness. Irbesartan (Avapro) is available in both brand name (Avapro) and generic tablet.

  • Indications of Atacand vs. Avapro

    Indications for
    •High blood pressure in adults and children
    •Lower the risk of worsening heart failure in adults
    Indications for
    •Treatment of high blood pressure
    •Slow the worsening of kidney disease from diabetes

  • Pros and Cons of Atacand vs. Avapro

    Pros and Const for ARB
    Pros
    •First-choice medication for high blood pressure
    •Works similarly to angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, but with fewer side effects, like cough and swelling
    •Can be made into an oral suspension for people who have trouble taking tablets
    •A possible option for children
    Cons
    •Must be avoided during pregnancy
    •Interacts with NSAIDs like ibuprofen (Advil)
    •Can take 4-6 weeks before you notice the full benefit
    •Can raise potassium levels as a side effect
    Pros and Const for ARB
    Pros
    •Available as a lower-cost generic medication
    •Typically taken once a day
    •Less likely to cause dry cough compared to ACE Inhibitors
    Cons
    •Not safe for use while pregnant
    •High risk of raising potassium levels
    •Requires regular blood work to make sure your kidneys are healthy

  • Common Side Effects of Atacand vs. Avapro

    Common Side Effects for
    •Upper respiratory tract infection (i.e., common cold; 6%)
    •Dizziness (4%)
    •Back pain (3%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Dizziness (up to 10%)
    •Low blood pressure when going from sitting to standing position (5%)
    •Feeling tired (4%)
    •Diarrhea (3%)
    •Heartburn (2%)

    Please note: People who took irbesartan (Avapro) for high blood pressure were more likely to experience tiredness, diarrhea, and heartburn. People who took this medication for diabetic kidney disease were more likely to experience dizziness.

  • Warnings of Atacand vs. Avapro

    Common Side Effects for
    •Harm to unborn baby
    •Low blood pressure
    •Kidney damage
    •High potassium levels
    Common Side Effects for
    •Harm to unborn baby
    •Low blood pressure
    •Worsening kidney problems
    •High levels of potassium

  • Prices with our coupons for Atacand vs. Avapro

    Learn more about Candesartan
    Learn more about Irbesartan

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