Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Irbesartan (Avapro) and azilsartan (Edarbi) are both angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) used to treat high blood pressure. Irbesartan is also used to treat diabetic kidney disease, while azilsartan is only approved for high blood pressure in adults. Irbesartan is available in both brand name and generic forms, making it a more cost-effective option, whereas azilsartan is only available as a brand-name medication. The typical dose for irbesartan is 150 mg to 300 mg once daily, while azilsartan is usually taken at 40 mg to 80 mg once daily. Common side effects of irbesartan include dizziness and tiredness, while azilsartan may cause diarrhea, nausea, and fatigue. Both medications can cause serious side effects like high potassium levels and kidney problems, and neither is safe to use during pregnancy.
Irbesartan (Avapro)
Edarbi (azilsartan)
Irbesartan (Avapro)
Edarbi (azilsartan)
Summary of Avapro vs. Edarbi
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.
Summary for ARB
Prescription only
Edarbi (azilsartan) is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). It's used to treat high blood pressure in adults. Edarbi (azilsartan) is available as a tablet. The typical dose is 40 mg to 80 mg by mouth once per day. Side effects aren't common, but can include diarrhea, nausea, and fatigue. Edarbi (azilsartan) isn't known to cause weight gain.
•Might not work as well for Black people as other blood pressure medications do
•Only available as a tablet
•Brand-name only
Common Side Effects of Avapro vs. Edarbi
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.