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Compare Norvasc vs. Zestril

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

Key takeaways

Amlodipine (Norvasc) and lisinopril (Zestril) are both medications used to treat high blood pressure, but they have important differences. Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker (CCB), while lisinopril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. Amlodipine is also used for coronary artery disease, whereas lisinopril is approved for heart failure and to lower the risk of death after a heart attack. Both medications are taken orally, typically once a day, and are available as a lower-cost generic. Amlodipine can cause side effects like swelling of the hands and feet and tiredness, while lisinopril may cause a dry cough and dizziness. Lisinopril can interact with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and is not safe during pregnancy. Both medications also come as an oral liquid for those who have trouble swallowing pills.

  • Amlodipine (Norvasc)
    Lisinopril (Zestril)
  • Amlodipine (Norvasc)
    Lisinopril (Zestril)

  • Summary of Norvasc vs. Zestril

    Summary for Calcium channel blocker (CCB)
    Prescription only

    Amlodipine tablets, also known as the brand name Norvasc, help treat high blood pressure in adults and children. It can also help with coronary artery disease, including related angina or chest pain. This medication belongs to the drug class called calcium channel blockers. The tablets are taken by mouth once a day. Some side effects can include tiredness and swelling of the hands and feet.

    Summary for ACE inhibitor
    Prescription only

    Lisinopril (Zestril) is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor that's a first-choice medication used for lowering blood pressure. It's also approved to treat symptoms of heart failure and also to lower the risk of death after a heart attack. Lisinopril (Zestril) is a tablet that's taken by mouth, typically once daily. It's also available as an oral solution. Some common side effects of this medication include cough, dizziness, and headache.

  • Indications of Norvasc vs. Zestril

    Indications for
    •High blood pressure
    •Coronary artery disease, including some types of chest pain (angina)
    Indications for
    •High blood pressure
    •Heart failure
    •Lower the risk for death after a heart attack

  • Pros and Cons of Norvasc vs. Zestril

    Pros and Const for Calcium channel blocker (CCB)
    Pros
    •A first-choice option for high blood pressure
    •Taken just once daily
    •Can take with or without food
    Cons
    •Can cause swelling in the legs
    •Can cause dizziness, so it can raise the risk of falls
    •Might need dose adjustments for people with liver problems to keep them safe
    Pros and Const for ACE inhibitor
    Pros
    •A first-choice blood pressure medication
    •Taken by mouth once per day
    •Can be taken by children as young as 6 years old for treatment of high blood pressure
    •Available as a liquid (Qbrelis), good option for people who've difficulty swallowing tablets
    Cons
    •More likely to cause a dry cough, compared to ARBs
    •Can't be taken during pregnancy or breastfeeding
    •Might not work as well for lowering high blood pressure in black people

  • Common Side Effects of Norvasc vs. Zestril

    Common Side Effects for
    •Tiredness (5%)
    •Nausea (3%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Dizziness (up to 19%)
    •Low blood pressure (7-11%)
    •Higher creatinine levels (7-10%)
    •Headache (6%)

  • Warnings of Norvasc vs. Zestril

    Common Side Effects for
    •Low blood pressure
    •Worsening chest pain and risk of heart attack
    Common Side Effects for
    •Not for use during pregnancy
    •Angioedema (swelling)
    •Low blood pressure
    •Worsening kidney problems
    •Heart problems due to high potassium
    •Liver problems

  • Prices with our coupons for Norvasc vs. Zestril

    Learn more about Amlodipine
    Learn more about Lisinopril

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