Key takeaways
Lisinopril (Zestril) and nisoldipine (Sular) are both medications used to lower blood pressure, but they belong to different drug classes and work in different ways. Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor that relaxes blood vessels by blocking a protein called ACE, while nisoldipine is a calcium channel blocker (CCB) that mainly works by relaxing blood vessels and the heart muscle. Lisinopril is also used to treat heart failure and reduce the risk of death after a heart attack, whereas nisoldipine is only approved for high blood pressure. Lisinopril is available in both tablet and liquid forms, making it easier for people who have trouble swallowing pills. Nisoldipine, on the other hand, must be swallowed whole and cannot be crushed or chewed. Common side effects of lisinopril include dizziness, headache, and a dry cough. Nisoldipine often causes headaches and swelling in the legs and feet. Additionally, lisinopril is generally less expensive due to its availability as a lower-cost generic, whereas nisoldipine, even in its generic form, tends to be more expensive.
