Key takeaways
Losartan (Cozaar) and Lotensin HCT (benazepril/hydrochlorothiazide) are both medications used to lower blood pressure, but they belong to different drug classes and work in different ways. Losartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that helps relax blood vessels and reduce water retention, while Lotensin HCT is a combination of an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor and a diuretic (water pill). Losartan is typically taken once daily and is available as a lower-cost generic. Lotensin HCT also has a generic form and combines two medications into one pill for convenience. However, Lotensin HCT can cause a dry cough, a common side effect of ACE inhibitors, and may make you urinate more often due to the diuretic component. Neither medication is safe to use during pregnancy and neither may not work as well for Black people. Additionally, both medications require regular monitoring for potassium levels and kidney function.
