Key takeaways
Ziac (bisoprolol/hydrochlorothiazide) and Exforge (amlodipine/valsartan) are both combination medications used to treat high blood pressure, but they work in different ways. Ziac combines a beta blocker (bisoprolol) and a diuretic (hydrochlorothiazide), while Exforge combines a calcium channel blocker (amlodipine) and an angiotensin receptor blocker (valsartan). Ziac can cause side effects like dizziness, tiredness, and increased urination, whereas Exforge may cause swelling in the legs or arms and dizziness. Both medications are available as generics, making them more affordable. Ziac is not recommended for people with certain heart conditions or those who are pregnant, while Exforge should be avoided during pregnancy and in people with severe liver problems. Additionally, Ziac can make it harder to detect low blood sugar symptoms in people with diabetes, while Exforge can raise potassium levels, which can be dangerous if not monitored.
