Key takeaways
Fosinopril (generic name: fosinopril) and Olmesartan (generic name: olmesartan, brand name: Benicar) are both medications used to treat high blood pressure, but they belong to different drug classes. Fosinopril is an ACE inhibitor, which works by blocking a chemical that tightens blood vessels, making them more relaxed. On the other hand, Olmesartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that lowers blood pressure by blocking a hormone that narrows blood vessels. Fosinopril is also used for heart failure and is approved for use in children 6 to 16 years old weighing 50 kg, while Olmesartan is approved for use in children as young as 6 years old. Both medications are taken once daily, but Fosinopril may cause a dry cough, which is not a common side effect of Olmesartan. Additionally, both medications can raise potassium levels and are not safe to use during pregnancy. Both medications require blood tests to check kidney health, whereas Olmesartan may cause severe diarrhea in rare cases.
