Key takeaways
Ziac (bisoprolol/hydrochlorothiazide) and Hyzaar (losartan/hydrochlorothiazide) 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 Hyzaar combines an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) (losartan) and a diuretic (hydrochlorothiazide). Ziac is typically not a first-choice medication for high blood pressure, whereas both components of Hyzaar are considered first-choice options. Ziac can cause dizziness and tiredness, and it’s important not to stop it suddenly due to the risk of serious heart problems. Hyzaar can also cause dizziness and may lead to high potassium levels, which can be serious. Both medications are taken once daily and can make you urinate more often. However, Hyzaar is specifically noted for its benefits in protecting the kidneys, especially in people with diabetes or mild-to-moderate kidney disease. Neither medication is recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks to the unborn baby.
