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Monopril vs. Losartan

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

Key takeaways

Fosinopril (generic, brand name Monopril) and Losartan (generic, brand name Cozaar) are both used to treat high blood pressure, but they belong to different medication classes. Fosinopril is an ACE inhibitor, which works by blocking a chemical that tightens blood vessels, making them more relaxed. Losartan, on the other hand, is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that blocks a hormone called angiotensin II from attaching to its receptors, which helps relax blood vessels and reduce water and salt retention. Fosinopril is also used for heart failure, while Losartan can lower the risk of stroke and slow down kidney problems in people with Type 2 diabetes. Both medications are taken once daily and are available as a lower-cost generic. Common side effects of Fosinopril include dizziness and cough, whereas Losartan may cause dizziness and upper respiratory infections. Both medications are not safe to use during pregnancy.

Fosinopril

 

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Losartan

(Cozaar)

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Summary for Monopril

Prescription only

Fosinopril sodium (Monopril) is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. It's used to treat high blood pressure in adults and children. It can also treat heart failure. Fosinopril comes as a tablet that's taken by mouth once daily. Most people don't experience any side effects from fosinopril. But people who did reported cough and dizziness. Though rare, fosinopril and other ACEI inhibitors can cause angioedema, which can be serious. Brand name Monopril has been discontinued; fosinopril is only available as a generic medication.

Indications for Monopril

Pros and Cons for Monopril

Pros

  • Taken by mouth
  • Taken once a day
  • Available as a lower-cost generic

Cons

  • Can cause a cough that might not go away until you stop the medication
  • Not safe to use if you're pregnant
  • Might not work as well for lowering high blood pressure in Black adults

Common Side Effects for Monopril

For the treatment of high blood pressure

  • Cough (2%)
  • Dizziness (2%)
  • Nausea or vomiting (1%)

For the treatment of heart failure

  • Dizziness (12%)
  • Cough (10%)
  • Low blood pressure (4%)
  • Muscle pain (3%)
  • Nausea or vomiting (2%)
  • Diarrhea (2%)
  • Chest pain (2%)
  • Upper respiratory tract infection (2%)

Warnings for Monopril

  • Not safe during pregnancy
  • Angioedema (swelling) and serious allergic reactions
  • Risk of infection (lower white blood cell count)
  • Low blood pressure
  • Worsening kidney problems
  • High potassium levels
  • Risk of liver problems

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

Prices with our coupons for Monopril vs. Losartan

Price Card Drug Icon
Fosinopril90 tablets / 40mg
$25.81$104.80
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Price Card Drug Icon
Losartan30 tablets / 50mg
$7.30$45.96
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