Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Lisinopril (Zestril) and benazepril (Lotensin) are both ACE inhibitors used to lower blood pressure, but they have some differences. Lisinopril is also approved to treat heart failure and reduce the risk of death after a heart attack, while benazepril is only approved for high blood pressure. Lisinopril is typically taken once daily and is available as a tablet and an oral solution, making it a good option for people who have trouble swallowing pills. Benazepril can be taken once or twice daily, depending on how your body responds. Both medications can cause a dry cough and dizziness. Neither medication should be taken during pregnancy due to the risk of birth defects. Both are available as lower-cost generics, making them affordable options for managing blood pressure.
Lisinopril (Zestril)
Benazepril (Lotensin)
Lisinopril (Zestril)
Benazepril (Lotensin)
Summary of Lisinopril vs. Benazepril
Summary for ACE inhibitor
Prescription only
Lisinopril (Zestril) is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor that's a first-choice medication used for lowering blood pressure. It's also approved to treat symptoms of heart failure and also to lower the risk of death after a heart attack. Lisinopril (Zestril) is a tablet that's taken by mouth, typically once daily. It's also available as an oral solution. Some common side effects of this medication include cough, dizziness, and headache.
Summary for ACE inhibitor
Prescription only
Benazepril (Lotensin) is a first-choice medication used to lower blood pressure. It's taken by mouth, typically once or twice daily. Some of the more common side effects of benazepril (Lotensin) include headache and dizziness. You shouldn't take this medication if you're pregnant because it can cause serious complications and birth defects. Benazepril (Lotensin) is available as a lower cost generic.
Indications of Lisinopril vs. Benazepril
Indications for
•High blood pressure
•Heart failure
•Lower the risk for death after a heart attack
Indications for
•High blood pressure
Pros and Cons of Lisinopril vs. Benazepril
Pros and Const for ACE inhibitor
Pros
•A first-choice blood pressure medication
•Taken by mouth once per day
•Can be taken by children as young as 6 years old for treatment of high blood pressure
•Available as a liquid (Qbrelis), good option for people who've difficulty swallowing tablets
Cons
•More likely to cause a dry cough, compared to ARBs