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Compare Lisinopril vs. Diovan

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

Key takeaways

Lisinopril (Zestril) and valsartan (Diovan) are both medications used to treat high blood pressure and heart-related conditions, but they belong to different drug classes. Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor, which works by blocking a protein that tightens blood vessels, while valsartan is an ARB that blocks a hormone called angiotensin II to relax blood vessels. Both medications are available in generic forms, making them more affordable. Lisinopril is typically taken once daily and can cause a dry cough, a common side effect of ACE inhibitors. In contrast, valsartan is less likely to cause a cough and can be taken once or twice daily. Both medications can cause dizziness and are not safe to use during pregnancy. Valsartan may take 2-4 weeks to show its full benefits for lowering blood pressure, whereas lisinopril's effects can be noticed within hours.

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  • Lisinopril (Zestril)
    Valsartan (Diovan)
  • Lisinopril (Zestril)
    Valsartan (Diovan)

  • Summary of Lisinopril vs. Diovan

    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 ARB
    Prescription only

    Valsartan, also known by its brand name, Diovan, is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). It's used to treat high blood pressure in adults and children. It's also used to lower the risk of serious heart-related problems in adults with heart failure or in adults after a heart attack. Valsartan (Diovan) is available as a lower-cost generic and comes as a tablet and liquid. The dosage depends on your condition, but it's typically taken by mouth once or twice per day. Potential side effects of valsartan (Diovan) include dizziness and fatigue.

  • Indications of Lisinopril vs. Diovan

    Indications for
    •High blood pressure
    •Heart failure
    •Lower the risk for death after a heart attack
    Indications for
    •High blood pressure in adults and children
    •Lower the risk of hospitalization for heart failure in adults
    •Lower the risk of death after a heart attack in adults

  • Pros and Cons of Lisinopril vs. Diovan

    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
    •Can't be taken during pregnancy or breastfeeding
    •Might not work as well for lowering high blood pressure in black people
    Pros and Const for ARB
    Pros
    •A first-choice medication for high blood pressure, heart failure, and heart attack for many people
    •Taken typically once per day, but sometimes twice per day
    •Available as a tablet and a liquid
    •Can be used in children
    Cons
    •Takes about 2-4 weeks to see full benefits of valsartan (Diovan) for high blood pressure
    •Might not work as well for Black people
    •Not safe to use during pregnancy
    •Can raise potassium levels

  • Common Side Effects of Lisinopril vs. Diovan

    Common Side Effects for
    •Dizziness (up to 19%)
    •Low blood pressure (7-11%)
    •Higher creatinine levels (7-10%)
    •Headache (6%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Dizziness (up to 8%)

    Note: Side effects were reported by adults who took valsartan for high blood pressure.

  • Warnings of Lisinopril vs. Diovan

    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 Lisinopril vs. Diovan

    Learn more about Lisinopril
    Learn more about Valsartan

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