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Losartan vs. Lopressor

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Losartan (Cozaar) and metoprolol tartrate (Lopressor) are both medications used to treat high blood pressure, but they belong to different drug classes. Losartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB), while metoprolol tartrate is a beta blocker. Losartan is also used to lower the risk of stroke in people with high blood pressure and thickened heart walls (left ventricular hypertrophy), and to slow kidney problems in people with Type 2 diabetes. Metoprolol tartrate, on the other hand, is used to treat chest pain and to lower the risk of death after a heart attack. Losartan is typically taken once a day, whereas metoprolol tartrate is usually taken twice a day with food. Both medications are available in lower-cost generic forms. Common side effects of losartan include dizziness and upper respiratory infections, while metoprolol tartrate can cause tiredness as well as dizziness. Losartan can interact with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and medications that raise potassium levels, while metoprolol tartrate can interact with medications affecting heart rate and blood sugar levels.

Losartan

(Cozaar)

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Metoprolol tartrate

(Lopressor)

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Summary for Losartan

Prescription only

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.

Indications for Losartan

Pros and Cons for Losartan

Pros

Cons

Common Side Effects for Losartan

Warnings for Losartan

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

Summary for Lopressor

Prescription only

Metoprolol tartrate (Lopressor) is a beta blocker used to treat chest pain and high blood pressure in adults. It can also lower the risk of death after a heart attack. You take it by mouth, typically once or twice a day, but your dose depends on your condition. Side effects include dizziness, shortness of breath, and it can make you tired.

Indications for Lopressor

Pros and Cons for Lopressor

Pros

  • Fast-acting — works quickly after you take it
  • First choice treatment after a heart attack
  • Available in different strengths, so your dose can be adjusted easily
  • Possible option for those who are breastfeeding

Cons

Common Side Effects for Lopressor

  • Tiredness (10%)
  • Dizziness (10%)
  • Diarrhea (5%)
  • Rash (5%)
  • Depression (5%)

Warnings for Lopressor

  • Risks of stopping treatment suddenly
  • Worsening heart failure
  • Risk of difficulty breathing
  • Major surgery
  • Hiding symptoms of low blood sugar
  • Hiding symptoms of overactive thyroid
  • Severe allergic reactions

Prices with our coupons for Losartan vs. Lopressor

Price Card Drug Icon
Losartan30 tablets / 50mg
$7.30$45.99
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Price Card Drug Icon
Metoprolol60 tablets / 25mg
$9.00$9.00
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