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Compare Enalapril vs. Atacand

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Enalapril (Vasotec) and Candesartan (Atacand) are both medications used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure, but they belong to different classes. Enalapril is an ACE inhibitor, which works by blocking a protein that tightens blood vessels, while Candesartan is an ARB that blocks a hormone called angiotensin II to relax blood vessels. Enalapril is taken once or twice daily and can cause a dry cough, which is a common side effect of ACE inhibitors. On the other hand, Candesartan is typically taken once or twice daily but is less likely to cause a cough, and may cause upper respiratory infections and back pain. Both medications can raise potassium levels and should not be used during pregnancy. Enalapril can be used in children as young as 1 month old, whereas Candesartan is approved for children starting at age 1. If you experience side effects or have concerns about these medications, consult your healthcare provider.

  • Enalapril (Vasotec)
    Candesartan (Atacand)
  • Enalapril (Vasotec)
    Candesartan (Atacand)

  • Summary of Enalapril vs. Atacand

    Summary for ACE inhibitor
    Prescription only

    Enalapril (Vasotec) is a first-choice medication used for treating high blood pressure. It's also approved for heart failure. Enalapril (Vasotec) belongs to a class of medications called angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. It's taken by mouth, once or twice daily. Enalapril (Vasotec) doesn't cause many side effects, but some include tiredness, dizziness, and cough.

    Summary for ARB
    Prescription only

    Candesartan (Atacand) is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). It's one of the first-choice medication for treating high blood pressure in adults and children. It can also help lower the risk of worsening heart failure in adults. Candesartan (Atacand) comes as a tablet that's taken by mouth, typically once or twice daily. Most people don't experience many side effects while taking this medication, but some can include upper respiratory tract infections, headache, and back pain.

  • Indications of Enalapril vs. Atacand

    Indications for
    •High blood pressure
    •Heart failure
    Indications for
    •High blood pressure in adults and children
    •Lower the risk of worsening heart failure in adults

  • Pros and Cons of Enalapril vs. Atacand

    Pros and Const for ACE inhibitor
    Pros
    •A first-choice blood pressure lowering medication for many people
    •Taken by mouth
    •Can be taken by children as young as 1 month old (high blood pressure only)
    •Available as a liquid for people who have trouble swallowing pills
    Cons
    •More likely to cause a dry cough, compared to angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs)
    •Can't be taken during pregnancy or breastfeeding
    •Might not work as well for lowering high blood pressure in black people
    •Need to take twice daily for heart failure
    Pros and Const for ARB
    Pros
    •First-choice medication for high blood pressure
    •Works similarly to angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, but with fewer side effects, like cough and swelling
    •Can be made into an oral suspension for people who have trouble taking tablets
    •A possible option for children
    Cons
    •Must be avoided during pregnancy
    •Interacts with NSAIDs like ibuprofen (Advil)
    •Can take 4-6 weeks before you notice the full benefit
    •Can raise potassium levels as a side effect

  • Common Side Effects of Enalapril vs. Atacand

    Common Side Effects for
    •Feeling tired (3%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Upper respiratory tract infection (i.e., common cold; 6%)
    •Dizziness (4%)
    •Back pain (3%)

  • Warnings of Enalapril vs. Atacand

    Common Side Effects for
    •Not for use during pregnancy
    •Angioedema (swelling)
    •Low blood pressure
    •Worsening kidney problems
    •Heart problems due to high potassium
    •Liver problems
    Common Side Effects for
    •Harm to unborn baby
    •Low blood pressure
    •Kidney damage
    •High potassium levels

  • Prices with our coupons for Enalapril vs. Atacand

    Learn more about Enalapril
    Learn more about Candesartan

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