Key takeaways
Lopressor HCT (metoprolol tartrate/hydrochlorothiazide) and Exforge (amlodipine/valsartan) are both combination medications used to lower blood pressure, but they work in different ways. Lopressor HCT combines a beta blocker (metoprolol) and a thiazide diuretic (hydrochlorothiazide), which slow down your heart rate and remove extra fluids through your kidneys. Exforge, on the other hand, combines a calcium channel blocker (amlodipine) and an angiotensin receptor blocker (valsartan), which relax your blood vessels and block a hormone that narrows them. Lopressor HCT is typically taken once or twice daily with food, while Exforge is taken once daily, with or without food. Common side effects of Lopressor HCT include dizziness and tiredness, whereas Exforge can cause swelling in the legs or arms and dizziness.Both drugs are available as lower-cost generics. Additionally, Exforge is not safe to take during pregnancy or breastfeeding, while Lopressor HCT has specific warnings for people with certain heart and lung conditions.
