Key takeaways
Enalapril (Vasotec, Epaned) and atenolol (Tenormin) are both medications used to treat high blood pressure, but they belong to different medication classes. Enalapril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, while atenolol is a beta blocker. Enalapril is also FDA-approved for treating heart failure, whereas atenolol is approved for chest pain (stable angina) and to lower the risk of death after a heart attack. Enalapril is typically taken once or twice daily, and atenolol is usually taken once daily. Enalapril is available in both oral tablet and oral liquid forms, while atenolol is available as an oral tablet. Common side effects of enalapril include tiredness, dizziness, and cough, while atenolol can cause dizziness, tiredness, and cold hands and feet. Enalapril can interact with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), increasing the risk of kidney problems, whereas atenolol should not be taken with certain calcium channel blockers due to the risk of low heart rate and heart block. Both medications are not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
