Getting blood pressure under control is key to staying healthy. Both the heart and kidneys are more likely to work well when blood pressure is not unduly elevated. But many people find it challenging to take a blood pressure pill that causes uncomfortable side effects. Is there one that will work well for you?
Looking for a Blood Pressure Pill That Won’t Cause a Cough:
Q. Can you please tell me about a blood pressure pill that won’t cause a cough? I have been on lisinopril and can’t stand the constant coughing. I’d be grateful for any information you can send.
Be Wary of ACE Inhibitors:
A. ACE inhibitors like benazepril, captopril, enalapril, lisinopril and ramipril do a good job controlling blood pressure, but the cough that some people experience can be maddening. You must not switch any blood pressure medicine on your own, but you should ask your physician for an alternate blood pressure pill. To help you with that conversation we are sending you our Guide to Blood Pressure Treatment with other drug options and nondrug alternatives.
Would an ARB Work?
You may wish to ask whether an “ARB” (angiotensin-renin blocker) would be right. Medicines such as candesartan (Atacand), losartan (Cozaar) and valsartan (Diovan) are less likely to trigger unbearable coughing, though some people still cough on these drugs.
Will a Diuretic Be Appropriate?
A diuretic blood pressure pill is one of the most old-fashioned options, yet it could work very well. Drugs such as hydrochlorothiazide or chlorthalidone rarely cause coughing. They can be quite helpful in treating blood pressure, although a person may not respond adequately and need additional or other medications to control hypertension (Diabetes Care, May, 2011). Diuretics have their own distinctive set of side effects, of course, and you and your health care provider will need to weigh those.
In sum, there are so many possible treatments for high blood pressure that you should be able to find a blood pressure pill that you can tolerate. It may take time, patience and trial and error, but we are confident you can succeed.
