Key takeaways
Enalapril (Vasotec) and Hydrochlorothiazide (Microzide) are both used to treat high blood pressure, but they work in different ways and belong to different drug classes. Enalapril is an ACE inhibitor that relaxes blood vessels by blocking a protein called ACE, while Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic (water pill) that helps you urinate more to remove extra water and certain electrolytes from your body. Enalapril is also approved for treating heart failure, whereas Hydrochlorothiazide is used to reduce swelling from fluid buildup (edema), including edema caused by heart failure. Enalapril can be taken by children as young as 1 month old for high blood pressure, but Hydrochlorothiazide is typically used in adults. Common side effects of Enalapril include tiredness, dizziness, and cough, while Hydrochlorothiazide can cause dizziness, increased urination, and sensitivity to sunlight. Additionally, Enalapril is not safe to use during pregnancy, and Hydrochlorothiazide must be used with caution in people with severe kidney or liver problems.
