Atacand vs. Avapro for Hypertension: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

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)

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Irbesartan

(Avapro)

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Summary for Atacand

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.

Indications for Atacand

High blood pressure in adults and children
Lower the risk of worsening heart failure in adults

Pros and Cons for Atacand

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

Common Side Effects for Atacand

Upper respiratory tract infection (i.e., common cold; 6%)
Dizziness (4%)
Back pain (3%)

Warnings for Atacand

Harm to unborn baby
Low blood pressure
Kidney damage
High potassium levels

Summary for Avapro

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 for Avapro

Treatment of high blood pressure
Slow the worsening of kidney disease from diabetes

Pros and Cons for Avapro

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 for Avapro

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.