Lisinopril vs. Metoprolol Tartrate: Understanding Your Blood Pressure Medication Options
Lisinopril and Metoprolol Tartrate are both commonly prescribed medications for conditions like high blood pressure and heart issues. While they share some uses, they belong to different drug classes and work in distinct ways, leading to different benefits and considerations for patients.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Lisinopril | Metoprolol Tartrate |
|---|---|---|
| Drug Class | ACE Inhibitor (Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitor) | Beta-Blocker |
| Primary Mechanism | Relaxes blood vessels by blocking the production of a hormone that narrows them. | Blocks adrenaline's effects on the heart and blood vessels, slowing heart rate and relaxing vessels. |
| Key Indications | High blood pressure, heart failure, post-heart attack | High blood pressure, chest pain (angina), post-heart attack |
| Common Side Effects | Dry cough, dizziness, fatigue, kidney function changes | Fatigue, dizziness, slow heart rate, cold hands/feet |
| Main Limitation | Risk of angioedema (severe swelling), not for use in pregnancy | Abrupt discontinuation can worsen heart conditions, caution in asthma/COPD |
| Dosing Frequency | Typically once daily | Typically once or twice daily |
| When to Choose | A doctor might prefer Lisinopril if the patient has high blood pressure, heart failure, or has had a heart attack, especially if there's a need for kidney protection in certain conditions. It's often a first-line choice for hypertension due to its effectiveness and once-daily dosing. | Metoprolol Tartrate might be preferred for patients with high blood pressure who also experience chest pain (angina) or have certain types of irregular heartbeats. It's also a common choice after a heart attack to reduce the heart's workload and improve outcomes. |
| Side Effects | Lisinopril is known for a common side effect of a persistent dry cough, which is less common with Metoprolol. Metoprolol can cause fatigue and a slower heart rate, and should be used with caution in patients with asthma or certain lung conditions. Both can cause dizziness and low blood pressure. | |
| Cost | Both Lisinopril and Metoprolol Tartrate are available as affordable generics, making them cost-effective options for long-term treatment. |
Bottom Line
Both Lisinopril and Metoprolol Tartrate are effective medications for managing blood pressure and heart conditions, but they work differently. Your doctor will choose the best option based on your specific health conditions, other medications, and individual response to treatment.
Lisinopril Overview
Lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril) is one of the most widely prescribed medications in the United States and the most commonly used ACE inhibitor. It lowers blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels, reduces hospitalizations and death in heart failure, and improves survival after a heart attack. It is also used to slow kidney disease progression in people with diabetes. Generic lisinopril is available for as little as $4–$15 per month, making it one of the most cost-effective cardiovascular medications available.
Full Lisinopril guide →Metoprolol Tartrate Overview
Metoprolol Tartrate is a beta-blocker medication used to treat high blood pressure, chest pain (angina), and to improve outcomes after a heart attack. It works by relaxing blood vessels and slowing the heart rate, which helps to lower blood pressure and reduce the heart's workload.
Full Metoprolol Tartrate guide →Compare prices for Lisinopril and Metoprolol Tartrate
Check real-time pharmacy prices before you fill — free, no account needed.
Medical Disclaimer
The information on RxGuide is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.