Key takeaways
Captopril (Capoten) and Valsartan (Diovan) are both medications used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. But they have some important differences. Captopril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, while Valsartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). Captopril is also used to prevent kidney problems in people with diabetes, which is not an approved use for Valsartan. Captopril is taken two to three times a day on an empty stomach, whereas Valsartan is usually taken once or twice a day and can be taken with or without food. Both medications are available as generics, but Captopril is only available in tablet form, while Valsartan comes in both tablet and liquid forms. Common side effects of captopril include a dry cough and changes in taste, while valsartan may cause dizziness and fatigue. Both medications can raise potassium levels, but valsartan is less likely to cause a cough compared to captopril. Additionally, both medications are not recommended during pregnancy.
