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Compare Zestoretic vs. Diovan

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

Key takeaways

Zestoretic (lisinopril/hydrochlorothiazide) and valsartan (Diovan) are both used to treat high blood pressure, but they belong to different medication classes. Zestoretic is a combination of an ACE inhibitor (lisinopril) and a diuretic (hydrochlorothiazide), while valsartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). Zestoretic works by relaxing blood vessels and removing extra water and electrolytes through the kidneys, whereas Valsartan lowers blood pressure by blocking a hormone that tightens blood vessels. Zestoretic is typically taken once daily, while valsartan can be taken once or twice daily depending on the condition being treated. Both medications can cause dizziness, but Zestoretic is more likely to cause a dry cough. Valsartan is available in both tablet and liquid forms, while Zestoretic is only available as a tablet. Both medications come as lower-cost generics but are not safe to use during pregnancy.

  • Zestoretic (lisinopril / hydrochlorothiazide)
    Valsartan (Diovan)
  • Zestoretic (lisinopril / hydrochlorothiazide)
    Valsartan (Diovan)

  • Summary of Zestoretic vs. Diovan

    Summary for ACE inhibitor/Diuretic (water pill) combo
    Prescription only

    Zestoretic is a combination blood pressure medication for adults. It contains lisinopril (an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor) and hydrochlorothiazide (a thiazide diuretic). It comes as a tablet that's taken by mouth once per day. Your prescriber will determine your dosage based on how high your blood pressure is and if you're taking other blood pressure medications. Some of the more common side effects it can cause include dizziness, headache, and cough. Zestoretic (lisinopril / hydrochlorothiazide) is available as a generic.

    Summary for ARB
    Prescription only

    Valsartan, also known by its brand name, Diovan, is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). It's used to treat high blood pressure in adults and children. It's also used to lower the risk of serious heart-related problems in adults with heart failure or in adults after a heart attack. Valsartan (Diovan) is available as a lower-cost generic and comes as a tablet and liquid. The dosage depends on your condition, but it's typically taken by mouth once or twice per day. Potential side effects of valsartan (Diovan) include dizziness and fatigue.

  • Indications of Zestoretic vs. Diovan

    Indications for
    •High blood pressure in adults
    Indications for
    •High blood pressure in adults and children
    •Lower the risk of hospitalization for heart failure in adults
    •Lower the risk of death after a heart attack in adults

  • Pros and Cons of Zestoretic vs. Diovan

    Pros and Const for ACE inhibitor/Diuretic (water pill) combo
    Pros
    •Combines two medications in one pill
    •Taken by mouth
    •Taken once daily
    Cons
    •Can make you urinate more often
    •Might not be appropriate for someone with a sulfa allergy
    •Shouldn't take during pregnancy or breastfeeding
    Pros and Const for ARB
    Pros
    •A first-choice medication for high blood pressure, heart failure, and heart attack for many people
    •Taken typically once per day, but sometimes twice per day
    •Available as a tablet and a liquid
    •Can be used in children
    Cons
    •Takes about 2-4 weeks to see full benefits of valsartan (Diovan) for high blood pressure
    •Might not work as well for Black people
    •Not safe to use during pregnancy
    •Can raise potassium levels

  • Common Side Effects of Zestoretic vs. Diovan

    Common Side Effects for
    •Dizziness (8%)
    •Headache (5%)
    •Cough (4%)
    •Extreme tiredness (4%)
    •Feeling lightheaded when standing after sitting or lying down (3%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Dizziness (up to 8%)

    Note: Side effects were reported by adults who took valsartan for high blood pressure.

  • Warnings of Zestoretic vs. Diovan

    Common Side Effects for
    •Not for use during pregnancy
    •Angioedema (swelling)
    •Low blood pressure
    •Kidney damage
    •Changes in electrolyte, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels
    •Vision problems
    •Lupus
    Common Side Effects for
    •Harm to unborn baby
    •Low blood pressure
    •Kidney damage
    •High potassium levels

  • Prices with our coupons for Zestoretic vs. Diovan

    Learn more about Zestoretic
    Learn more about Valsartan

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