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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Does HCTZ Or Lisinopril Have Lesser Side Effects?

My doctor wants to change my blood pressure med. I have been taking HCTZ for a number of years now, however, my potasssium levels have been going up and down (as of today 3.1) which I m now told is one of the side effects of HCTZ. Her suggestion is Lisonopril. Not sure if the dry cough and headaches are worth it. Can t I eat more foods with potassium and build up my levels and stay with the HCTZ. I know it would take time with a new med to regulate, however, sometimes you want to stay with the devil you know. Thanks for any information you can provide.
Mon, 29 Feb 2016
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Critical Care Specialist,  's  Response
Hi, both lisinopril and hydrochlorothiazide are excellent medications for hypertension and with few side effects in the real world.

HCTZ can reduce the potassium level in the blood because of the increase in the loss of this ion in urine. To reverse this problem, you can eat a larger amount of foods rich in potassium and then reduce the dose or change the medication.

However, HCTZ may hinder the control of cholesterol, triglycerides and even reduce the effect of antidiabetic drugs. On the other hand, lisinopril has pleiotropic effects on the lipid profile, protects renal function and facilitate glycemic control, besides being an excellent anti hypertensive drug. I do not have subsidies to opine on what is best for not only control your blood pressure, but your entire body.

Hope I have answered your question. If you have any further questions I will be happy to help you. Wish you good health.
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Does HCTZ Or Lisinopril Have Lesser Side Effects?

Hi, both lisinopril and hydrochlorothiazide are excellent medications for hypertension and with few side effects in the real world. HCTZ can reduce the potassium level in the blood because of the increase in the loss of this ion in urine. To reverse this problem, you can eat a larger amount of foods rich in potassium and then reduce the dose or change the medication. However, HCTZ may hinder the control of cholesterol, triglycerides and even reduce the effect of antidiabetic drugs. On the other hand, lisinopril has pleiotropic effects on the lipid profile, protects renal function and facilitate glycemic control, besides being an excellent anti hypertensive drug. I do not have subsidies to opine on what is best for not only control your blood pressure, but your entire body. Hope I have answered your question. If you have any further questions I will be happy to help you. Wish you good health.