There are many medications on the market to treat high blood pressure, but two of the most popular are Cozaar and Diovan. While they both work in similar ways, there are some differences between the two that can be important to consider when choosing a medication. This blog post will outline those differences and help you decide which is right for you.
What is Cozaar?
Cozaar is a medication that is used to treat high blood pressure. It works by blocking the action of a chemical in the body called angiotensin II. This chemical narrows blood vessels, which can lead to high blood pressure. Cozaar helps to prevent this by keeping blood vessels open and relaxed. It is important to take Cozaar exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Cozaar can be taken with or without food. Cozaar may be used alone or in combination with other blood pressure medications. If you have any questions about Cozaar, please speak with your doctor or pharmacist.
What is Diovan?
Diovan (valsartan) is a prescription medication used to treat high blood pressure and congestive heart failure. It works by blocking the action of certain hormones in the body that can raise blood pressure. Diovan is part of a class of drugs called angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs). Diovan is available as a generic drug. Other ARBs include Atacand (candesartan), Avapro (irbesartan), Benicar (olmesartan), Cozaar (losartan), Diovan HCT (hydrochlorothiazide and valsartan), Micardis (telmisartan), and Teveten (eprosartan). Diovan was first approved by the FDA in 1996. Diovan HCT was approved in 2003. Diovan side effects include headache, fatigue, dizziness, and diarrhea. Diovan can also cause an increase in potassium levels in the blood. Diovan should be used only when prescribed by a healthcare professional.
Differences between Cozaar and Diovan
Cozaar (losartan) and Diovan (valsartan) are both medications that are used to treat hypertension or high blood pressure. Cozaar is an angiotensin II receptor blocker, while Diovan is an arterial vasodilator. Both medications work by widening your blood vessels, which helps to lower your blood pressure. Cozaar and Diovan are similar in many ways, but there are also some key differences.
For example, Cozaar is available as a generic drug, while Diovan is not. Cozaar is also approved for use in children as young as 6 years old, while Diovan is only approved for use in adults. Finally, Cozaar may be more likely than Diovan to cause certain side effects, such as fatigue and dizziness. Talk to your doctor about which medication is right for you.
Conclusion
The medications Cozaar and Diovan are both used to treat high blood pressure, but there are some differences between the two. Cozaar is a calcium channel blocker while Diovan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker. Both medications work in different ways to lower blood pressure, so your doctor may prescribe one over the other depending on your specific situation.
