Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Metoprolol tartrate (Lopressor) and benazepril (Lotensin) are both medications used to manage high blood pressure, but they belong to different classes and have distinct uses and side effects. Metoprolol tartrate is a beta blocker that slows down your heart rate and is also used to treat chest pain and reduce the risk of death after a heart attack. It is typically taken twice daily with food. On the other hand, benazepril is an ACE inhibitor that helps relax blood vessels and is usually taken once or twice daily, with or without food. Benazepril is noted for its potential to protect kidney function in people with diabetes or mild-to-moderate kidney disease, whereas metoprolol is preferred for those who have had a heart attack. While metoprolol can cause dizziness, tiredness, and may hide symptoms of low blood sugar, benazepril can cause a dry cough, dizziness, and should not be taken during pregnancy due to the risk of birth defects. Both medications are available in lower-cost generic forms.
Metoprolol tartrate (Lopressor)
Benazepril (Lotensin)
Metoprolol tartrate (Lopressor)
Benazepril (Lotensin)
Summary of Lopressor vs. Benazepril
Summary for Beta blocker
Prescription only
Metoprolol tartrate (Lopressor) is used to treat chest pain and high blood pressure. It's also used to lower the risk of death after a heart attack. This medication is taken by mouth, typically twice daily, though your dosage depends on what condition you have. Some side effects of metoprolol tartrate (Lopressor) include dizziness or tiredness. Metoprolol tartrate (Lopressor) is available as a brand name and generic tablet.
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.