Key takeaways
Entresto (sacubitril/valsartan) and lisinopril (Zestril) are both medications used to treat heart failure, but they belong to different drug classes. Entresto is an angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor (ARNI), while lisinopril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. Entresto is specifically approved for heart failure in adults and children over 1 year old, whereas lisinopril is also approved for high blood pressure and to lower the risk of death after a heart attack. Entresto is taken twice daily as tablets or oral pellets, while lisinopril is typically taken once daily and comes as a tablet or liquid. Entresto only comes as a branded medication, while lisinopril is available as a lower-cost generic. Common side effects of Entresto include low blood pressure, high potassium levels, and dizziness, while lisinopril can cause dizziness, low blood pressure, and a dry cough. Both medications can interact with other drugs, so be sure your prescriber and pharmacist have a complete list of your medications.
