Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Clonidine
Captopril
Clonidine
Captopril
Summary of Catapres-TTS vs. Capoten
Summary for Alpha agonist
Prescription only
Clonidine is a prescription medication that can be used to treat high blood pressure. It comes in 3 forms: topical patch, immediate-release tablet, and extended-release tablet. Clonidine usually isn't a first-choice option to treat high blood pressure because it can cause "rebound hypertension" (sudden rise in blood pressure) when the medication is suddenly stopped. Clonidine also isn't recommended for older adults since it can raise the risk for falls.
Summary for ACE inhibitor
Prescription only
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.