Key takeaways
Exforge (amlodipine/valsartan) and Atacand (candesartan) are both medications used to treat high blood pressure, but they have some key differences. Exforge is a combination of two medications: amlodipine, a calcium channel blocker (CCB), and valsartan, an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). In contrast, Atacand contains only candesartan, which is an ARB. Exforge is typically taken once a day, while Atacand can be taken once or twice daily. Atacand is also used to lower the risk of worsening heart failure in adults and can be prescribed to children. Common side effects of Exforge include swelling in the legs and dizziness, while Atacand may cause upper respiratory infections, dizziness, and back pain. Both medications can raise potassium levels and should not be used during pregnancy. Additionally, both medications are available in lower-cost generic forms.
