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Compare Zestoretic vs. Prazosin

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

Key takeaways

Zestoretic (lisinopril/hydrochlorothiazide) and prazosin (Minipress) are both used to lower high blood pressure, but they have some key differences. Zestoretic is a combination of an ACE inhibitor and a diuretic, taken once daily, and is considered a first-choice option for blood pressure management. It works by relaxing blood vessels and removing extra water and electrolytes from your body. On the other hand, prazosin is an alpha blocker that relaxes blood vessels and is typically taken 2 to 3 times a day. Prazosin is not a first-choice medication for high blood pressure due to its side effects like dizziness, headache, and drowsiness. Zestoretic can cause a dry cough and is not safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women, while prazosin can cause drowsiness and is sometimes used off-label for PTSD-related nightmares. Both medications can cause dizziness, but prazosin has a higher risk of causing fainting, especially in older adults.

  • Zestoretic (lisinopril / hydrochlorothiazide)
    Prazosin (Minipress)
  • Zestoretic (lisinopril / hydrochlorothiazide)
    Prazosin (Minipress)

  • Summary of Zestoretic vs. Prazosin

    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 Alpha blocker
    Prescription only

    Prazosin (Minipress) is an alpha blocker that's used to lower high blood pressure. It works by relaxing your blood vessels, so blood flows through more easily. Prazosin (Minipress) is taken by mouth, typically 2 to 3 times a day. But it isn't a first-choice medication to lower blood pressure because it can cause bothersome side effects like dizziness, headache, and sleepiness.

  • Indications of Zestoretic vs. Prazosin

    Indications for
    •High blood pressure in adults
    Indications for
    •High blood pressure (hypertension)

  • Pros and Cons of Zestoretic vs. Prazosin

    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 Alpha blocker
    Pros
    •Taken by mouth
    •Can be taken with or without food
    •Available as a lower-cost generic medication
    Cons
    •Not a first-choice option for lowering blood pressure
    •Older adults are at higher risk for side effects, like dizziness or drowsiness
    •Taken multiple times a day

  • Common Side Effects of Zestoretic vs. Prazosin

    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 (10%)
    •Headache (8%)
    •Drowsiness (8%)
    •Lack of energy (7%)
    •Weakness (7%)
    •Pounding heart (5%)
    •Nausea (5%)

  • Warnings of Zestoretic vs. Prazosin

    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
    •Dangerously low blood pressure and risk of fainting
    •Painful erection (priapism)
    •Eye problems during surgery

  • Prices with our coupons for Zestoretic vs. Prazosin

    Learn more about Zestoretic
    Learn more about Prazosin

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