Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Lisinopril/hydrochlorothiazide (Zestoretic) and hydrochlorothiazide (Microzide) are both medications used to treat high blood pressure. They both contain hydrochlorothiazide, a diuretic that works by helping you get rid of water and electrolytes from your body. However, Zestoretic is a combination medication that also includes lisinopril, an ACE inhibitor that relaxes blood vessels, while Microzide contains only hydrochlorothiazide. Zestoretic is taken once daily, while Microzide can be taken once or twice daily, depending on your condition. Both medications can cause dizziness and increased urination, but the lisinopril in Zestoretic may also cause a dry cough. Zestoretic is not recommended during pregnancy. Both medications can interact with other drugs, so be sure your prescriber and pharmacist have a complete list of your medications.
Zestoretic (lisinopril / hydrochlorothiazide)
Hydrochlorothiazide
Zestoretic (lisinopril / hydrochlorothiazide)
Hydrochlorothiazide
Summary of Zestoretic vs. Hydrochlorothiazide
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 Diuretic (water pill)
Prescription only
Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic or water pill. It helps lower blood pressure. It also helps with swelling from fluid buildup (edema) caused by some health conditions, like heart failure and kidney problems. People of all ages can take hydrochlorothiazide tablets and capsules. But children typically take much smaller, weight-based doses. You typically take your dose by mouth once (sometimes twice) daily, but avoid nighttime dosing so you won't wake up to urinate. Some common side effects are dizziness and urinating more often.