Key takeaways
Candesartan (Atacand) and lisinopril (Zestril) are both medications used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure, but they have some important differences. Candesartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB), while lisinopril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. Both medications work by relaxing blood vessels, but they do so in different ways. Candesartan is typically taken once or twice daily as a tablet, while lisinopril is usually taken once daily and is available as both a tablet and an oral solution. Lisinopril is also approved to lower the risk of death after a heart attack. Common side effects of candesartan include upper respiratory tract infections and back pain, whereas lisinopril is more likely to cause a dry cough and dizziness. Both medications can raise potassium levels and are not recommended during pregnancy. They are also not recommended with NSAIDs like ibuprofen (Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve). Both medications are available as a lower-cost generic.
