Key takeaways
Candesartan (Atacand) and telmisartan (Micardis) are both angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) used to treat high blood pressure. However, there are some differences between the two. Candesartan is available for both adults and children, while Telmisartan is only for adults. Telmisartan also has an additional use for lowering the risk of death, stroke, or heart attack in certain adults with heart problems, which is not a labeled use for candesartan. The typical starting dose for candesartan is 16 mg once daily, whereas for telmisartan, it's 40 mg once daily. Both medications can cause side effects like upper respiratory infections and back pain, but telmisartan may also cause leg pain and skin ulcers. Both medications are available as lower-cost generics and should be avoided during pregnancy due to potential harm to the unborn baby.
