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Capoten vs. Norvasc

Captopril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. It's used in adults to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, and to prevent the worsening of kidney problems in people who have diabetes. Captopril is available as a tablet that's taken by mouth two to three times per day. Your healthcare team will help determine your dose based on different factors, such as how high your blood pressure is and what other medications you're taking. Side effects include a dry cough, changes in taste, and dizziness. Brand name Capoten has been discontinued; captopril is only available as a generic medication.

• High blood pressure
• Heart failure (in combination with other medications)
• Improve survival after heart attack in people who have heart failure
• Prevent worsening kidney problems in people who have diabetes (diabetic nephropathy)

• Skin rash (up to 7%)
• Changes in taste (up to 4%)
• Dry cough (up to 2%)
• Itching (2%)

• Not safe during pregnancy
• Angioedema (swelling) and serious allergic reactions
• Risk of infection (lower white blood cell count)
• Low blood pressure
• Worsening kidney problems
• High potassium levels
• Risk of liver problems

Amlodipine tablets, also known as the brand name Norvasc, help treat high blood pressure in adults and children. It can also help with coronary artery disease, including related angina or chest pain. This medication belongs to the drug class called calcium channel blockers. The tablets are taken by mouth once a day. Some side effects can include tiredness and swelling of the hands and feet.

• High blood pressure
• Coronary artery disease, including some types of chest pain (angina)

• Tiredness (5%)
• Nausea (3%)

• Low blood pressure
• Worsening chest pain and risk of heart attack