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Lisinopril vs. Losartan

Lisinopril (Zestril) is an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor, or ACE inhibitor. It's used to treat high blood pressure in people 6 years and older. In adults, it's also approved to manage heart failure and to lower the risk of death after a heart attack. Lisinopril (Zestril) comes as a tablet that's taken by mouth once daily. There's also an oral solution available under the brand name Qbrelis. Some side effects include dizziness, cough, and headache.

• High blood pressure in people ages 6 years and older
• Heart failure in adults
• Lowering the risk of death after a heart attack in adults

• Dizziness (up to 19%)
• Low blood pressure (up to 11%)
• Higher creatinine levels (up to 10%)

• Harm to an unborn baby
• Angioedema (swelling)
• Low blood pressure
• Possible worsening of kidney problems
• High potassium levels
• Liver problems

Losartan, also known by the brand name Cozaar, is a first-choice medication that's used to lower blood pressure. It's also shown to protect against stroke in certain people. In addition, this medication can slow down the worsening of kidney problems in certain people with diabetes. Losartan (Cozaar) belongs to the drug class called angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs). This medication is taken by mouth once daily and is available as a lower-cost generic. Side effects can include dizziness, fatigue, and upper respiratory infections.

• High blood pressure
• Lower the risk of stroke in people with high blood pressure who have a thickened heart (left ventricular hypertrophy)
• Slow down the worsening of kidney problems in people with Type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure

• Upper respiratory infection (e.g., common cold; 8%)
• Dizziness (3%)
• Stuffy nose (2%)
• Back pain (2%)

• Harm to unborn baby
• Low blood pressure
• Kidney damage
• High potassium levels