Top 9 Benazepril Alternatives in 2025: What Works, What Doesn’t
Benazepril used to be the go-to for tackling high blood pressure, but let’s be real—meds aren’t one-size-fits-all. Ever started a new prescription and wondered if there might be something better for your body, your budget, or with fewer side effects? You’re not alone, and 2025 brings a long list of contenders.
Doctors now have plenty of options to keep your blood pressure in check. Some are newer, some have been around for decades, and each comes with its quirks and perks. If Benazepril gives you a cough, leaves you feeling off, or simply isn’t cutting it, there’s no shortage of other meds that might do the trick. And trust me, it’s worth looking at the details—as side effects, effectiveness, and prices aren’t the same for everyone.
Below, you’ll find clear breakdowns of nine solid alternatives to Benazepril. No jargon, just the facts—plus concrete tips so you can be smarter and safer about your next prescription.
- Chlorthalidone
- Lisinopril
- Losartan
- Amlodipine
- Hydrochlorothiazide
- Valsartan
- Enalapril
- Metoprolol
- Spironolactone
- Conclusion and Comparison Table
Chlorthalidone
Chlorthalidone isn’t a household name like some blood pressure drugs, but it packs a punch when it comes to managing hypertension. Think of it as a tougher, longer-lasting cousin to the standard thiazide diuretics you see everywhere. Doctors started using it back in the 1960s, and it’s still going strong in 2025. That’s impressive, considering how quickly meds come and go these days.
Instead of relaxing blood vessels like ACE inhibitors (such as Benazepril), chlorthalidone works by helping your body get rid of extra salt and water. The result? Less fluid in your blood vessels and, usually, a pretty solid drop in blood pressure. It’s especially handy for people whose numbers won’t budge with other meds, or who have a high salt intake they can’t quite shake.
Pros
- Stronger than traditional options like hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ)—can lower blood pressure even when other diuretics stall out.
- Lasts a lot longer—up to 48 hours, so missing a dose isn’t usually a disaster.
- Cheap and widely available at most pharmacies.
One thing that’s hard to ignore: Some studies (for example, the ALLHAT trial) have shown chlorthalidone can actually lower the risk of heart failure better than a few other blood pressure meds. That’s a big deal if you’re not just worried about your numbers but also your long-term heart health.
Cons
- It can drop your potassium too low—if you start feeling muscle cramps or weakness, tell your doctor right away.
- May bump up uric acid levels, which can set off gout if you’re prone to it.
- If you don’t drink enough fluids, dehydration can sneak up on you, especially in hot weather.
Quick tip: If you’re switching from Benazepril to chlorthalidone, your doctor will probably watch your blood and kidney numbers closely the first few weeks. Frequent labs at the start help catch any problems before they become serious.
| Diuretic | Hours of Effect |
|---|---|
| Chlorthalidone | 24–48 |
| Hydrochlorothiazide | 6–12 |
If you’re struggling with resistant hypertension, chlorthalidone is absolutely worth asking your doctor about—just go in knowing that a bit of bloodwork and smart hydration can make a world of difference.
Lisinopril
Lisinopril sits high on the list when you talk about Benazepril alternatives for stubborn blood pressure. Both meds are ACE inhibitors, so they work similarly to relax blood vessels and make it easier for your heart to pump. Lisinopril has been around for years, so there’s a ton of data—doctors trust it and know exactly what to expect.
Here’s something handy: Lisinopril’s dosing is straightforward. Most people start with one pill per day, and it fits right into a morning routine. It’s also available as a generic, meaning it’s budget-friendly for most folks even without fancy insurance. In fact, Lisinopril is regularly one of the top-prescribed meds in the US because it makes a real difference for lots of people with hypertension.
Sometimes, doctors use Lisinopril not just for blood pressure but also for protecting the kidneys, especially in type 2 diabetes. If Benazepril causes a dry cough for you, keep in mind that Lisinopril can do the same—this is just how ACE inhibitors sometimes behave. But many patients switch and do just fine.
Pros
- Extensively studied, so doctors know what to expect
- Helps lower blood pressure and protects organs like the kidneys
- Cheap and widely available as a generic
- Once-a-day pill makes it easy to remember
- May also help after a heart attack or in heart failure
Cons
- Can cause a dry cough in some people
- May raise your potassium levels—needs occasional blood tests
- Not a great choice if you have a history of angioedema (serious swelling)
- Some patients report dizziness when standing up fast, especially at first
- Not safe to use during pregnancy
Doctors usually start with a low dose to lower the risk of dizziness or lightheadedness, especially in older adults. Always check your potassium levels if you’re on Lisinopril—it’s one of those annoying lab tests, but it matters because high potassium can sneak up and cause real trouble.
| Lisinopril at a Glance | Details |
|---|---|
| Class | ACE Inhibitor |
| Typical Dose | 10–40 mg once daily |
| Common Side Effect | Dry cough |
| Who Should Avoid | Pregnant women, people with angioedema |
| Generic Available? | Yes |
Losartan
Losartan is super popular these days when it comes to blood pressure control. It's the first of its kind in the angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) lineup, and it’s been a reliable choice for over 25 years. Doctors often reach for Losartan when patients can’t handle ACE inhibitors like Benazepril—especially if that nagging cough is driving you nuts.
Unlike Benazepril, which blocks the angiotensin-converting enzyme, Losartan works by blocking the angiotensin II receptor. This means your blood vessels relax, your blood pressure drops, and you’re less likely to end up with serious heart problems down the road.
Pros
- Way less likely to cause a cough than ACE inhibitors.
- Helps protect your kidneys if you have diabetes on top of high blood pressure.
- Often just one dose per day—easy to remember.
- Strong safety profile, especially in older adults.
- Good for people with heart failure and those worried about stroke risk.
Cons
- Can make potassium levels go up, which matters if your kidneys aren't great.
- Not safe to use if you’re pregnant (or planning to be).
- Cost can be higher than older options, though generics help.
- Can cause dizziness, especially when you first start taking it.
| Medication | Reduction |
|---|---|
| Losartan | 10-13 |
| Benazepril | 8-12 |
| Amlodipine | 12-14 |
Pro tip: If you’re monitoring hypertension at home, tell your doctor if your numbers are still high after a week or two—sometimes dosages need tweaking. Also, keep an eye on your potassium-rich foods if Losartan is on your daily list.
Amlodipine
So, you’ve probably heard of amlodipine. Docs love to reach for this one when your blood pressure refuses to budge or your numbers are all over the place. Amlodipine is part of the calcium channel blocker family. Basically, it relaxes the blood vessels so blood can flow more easily, which brings those pressure numbers down. It’s not a diuretic, so you won’t be running to the bathroom all day, and, for a lot of people, it means fewer daily disruptions.
What makes amlodipine stand out from something like Benazepril? For starters, there’s no pesky cough—a common Benazepril side effect—and it works a bit differently in the body. This makes it a solid pick for folks who need a change-up because of side effects, especially coughs or kidney concerns. Fun fact: amlodipine’s long-lasting effect means you only need to take it once a day, and that’s a big deal if remembering pills isn’t your favorite thing.
Pros
- No frequent urination—unlike some water pills, it won’t leave you scrambling for the nearest bathroom.
- Unlikely to cause a cough (a big plus for folks who had this with ACE inhibitors like Benazepril).
- Works well for most people, even those with diabetes or chronic kidney issues.
- Once-daily dosing is simple to stick with.
- Can also help control chest pain (angina).
Cons
- Can cause swollen ankles or feet (called edema), especially if you’re on higher doses.
- Some people notice mild headaches or flushing after starting it.
- If you have liver problems, it might take longer to process the medication.
- Rare, but sometimes people feel lightheaded, especially when first starting.
About 1 in 10 people on amlodipine may experience some swelling; lowering the dose or taking it at night sometimes helps. If you’re worried about side effects, talk it through with your provider—the good news is they’ve probably seen the same questions before!
| Amlodipine | Benazepril | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Calcium channel blocker | ACE inhibitor |
| Dosing | Once daily | Once to twice daily |
| Main Side Effects | Swelling, mild headache | Cough, high potassium |
| Good for Kidney Issues? | Yes | Caution |
Hydrochlorothiazide
Hydrochlorothiazide, often called HCTZ by doctors, is one of the oldest and most common meds for high blood pressure. It's a thiazide diuretic, so it basically helps your body get rid of extra salt and water through your urine. That lessens the pressure inside your blood vessels—which is what you want when managing hypertension.
This drug is often prescribed on its own, but you’ll also see it combined with others like lisinopril or losartan in those combo pills. People like Hydrochlorothiazide for its simplicity and the fact it’s widely available. In fact, millions of folks in the US start out on this med before trying something stronger or more tailored to tough cases.
Pros
- Proven track record—HCTZ has been around for decades, so doctors know it inside and out.
- Usually well-tolerated at low doses, so many people can take it without big issues.
- It’s cheap—generic Hydrochlorothiazide costs just a few bucks at most pharmacies.
- Can help with swelling (edema), not just blood pressure.
- Works well alongside other Benazepril alternatives, letting doctors mix for better control.
Cons
- Can lower your potassium—which means you might need blood tests now and then.
- Not as effective for people with severe kidney problems.
- Sometimes causes higher blood sugar or uric acid, so folks with diabetes or gout need to watch out.
- Some people report increased urination, especially in the first weeks.
- Rare, but possible, side effects: fuzzy vision, sunlight sensitivity, or muscle cramps.
Wonder how Hydrochlorothiazide stacks up among Benazepril alternatives? Here’s a quick peek at how it compares for typical users:
| Feature | Hydrochlorothiazide | Benazepril |
|---|---|---|
| Class | Thiazide diuretic | ACE inhibitor |
| Generic cost | $4-10/month | $4-15/month |
| Most common side effect | Low potassium | Dry cough |
| Works for edema? | Yes | No |
If simplicity and price top your priorities, Hydrochlorothiazide is an easy pick among blood pressure meds. Just make sure you’re keeping an eye on your labs if you’re on it for the long haul.
Valsartan
If your blood pressure stays stubbornly high even with Benazepril alternatives, Valsartan is one you’ll hear about at the doctor’s office. It’s part of a group called ARBs (angiotensin II receptor blockers), and it works differently from ACE inhibitors like Benazepril. Instead of blocking the creation of a hormone that tightens blood vessels, it blocks the effects, so your vessels stay relaxed and your blood pressure gets a smoother ride down.
Valsartan became even more popular after some folks got tired of the notorious dry cough that comes with ACE inhibitors. It’s usually well-tolerated, and doctors often reach for it if you’re sensitive to typical side effects like swelling or cough. Here’s a neat stat: A large study found that Valsartan lowered systolic blood pressure by an average of 12–15 mg Hg over 8 weeks, about the same as other top ARBs.
Pros
- Less likely to cause a cough compared to ACE inhibitors (like Benazepril).
- Works well for people with high blood pressure and heart failure.
- Protects kidney function, especially if you have diabetes or mild chronic kidney disease.
- Usually taken once daily—easy to remember.
Cons
- Can sometimes bump up potassium levels—watch out if you’re using potassium supplements or certain diuretics.
- Can cause dizziness, especially when you first start or if you’re also taking a diuretic.
- Rare risk of serious allergic reactions or swelling of the face/lips.
- Shouldn’t be taken in pregnancy—it can harm an unborn baby.
| Who Might Like It? | What to Remember |
|---|---|
| Folks with persistent cough on ACE inhibitors, diabetics, or those with mild kidney disease. | Periodic blood tests for potassium, and avoid mixing with potassium supplements unless your doctor says so. |
Bottom line: Valsartan checks a lot of boxes when you need reliable blood pressure control but just can’t handle ACE inhibitors’ side effects. Always check with your provider before swapping meds, since mixing the wrong combos can cause new problems you didn’t sign up for.
Enalapril
Enalapril is another well-known ACE inhibitor like Benazepril. It’s been around for decades and remains a go-to option for blood pressure control and helping with heart failure. Enalapril works by relaxing blood vessels, which makes it easier for your heart to pump blood. Doctors like that it can be dosed once or twice daily, so you don’t have to remember a complicated schedule.
If you’ve had side effects from Benazepril, Enalapril is sometimes easier on the body, although the dreaded ACE-inhibitor cough can still show up. Fun fact: Enalapril is one of the most prescribed ACE inhibitors in the world, known for being predictable and well-studied.
Pros
- Well-tolerated by most people, with a good safety track record
- Reduces risk of stroke, heart attack, and hospitalizations for heart failure
- Generic versions are cheap and easy to find
- Can be combined with diuretics if needed
Cons
- ACE inhibitor cough (that annoying dry cough) can happen, just like with Benazepril
- Risk of high potassium if you’re taking supplements or certain other drugs
- Not safe for people with a history of angioedema (that weird face or tongue swelling)
- Poor choice during pregnancy
| Dose Range (mg/day) | Typical Cost (monthly, generic) | Years on Market |
|---|---|---|
| 5 – 40 mg | $5 – $20 | Since 1985 |
If your doctor suggests a switch from Benazepril, Enalapril is often top of the list. Just be honest about any side effects or supplements you’re taking so you can dodge surprises.
Metoprolol
If you’re switching up from Benazepril and want something that tackles more than just blood pressure, Metoprolol might catch your eye. It’s a beta blocker—not an ACE inhibitor like Benazepril—so it doesn’t just relax blood vessels; it slows your heart rate, too. That makes it popular for folks with high blood pressure who also deal with chest pain (angina), heart attacks, or even certain kinds of irregular heartbeat.
Doctors have relied on Metoprolol for years. There are two main types: tartrate (short-acting) and succinate (long-acting). Most people with high blood pressure take the long-acting version (Metoprolol succinate), usually once a day. It starts lowering your blood pressure within about an hour and can help keep it steady if you take it regularly.
Pros
- Good for people with high blood pressure (hypertension) and other heart issues—proven to help after a heart attack.
- Often helps with heart-related anxiety, tremors, migraines, and fast heart rates.
- Usually just once-daily dosing with the long-acting version, which is practical for busy routines.
- Generic versions are common, keeping costs reasonable for most insurance plans and pharmacies.
Cons
- Can leave you feeling tired or sluggish, especially at first.
- May cause cold hands and feet because it slows circulation.
- Might hide symptoms of low blood sugar, so diabetics need to keep a close eye.
- Not a good pick for people with asthma/COPD, since it might worsen breathing problems.
- Needs to be tapered off—don’t stop suddenly or you could spike your blood pressure or trigger heart problems.
The American Heart Association flags Metoprolol as especially useful if you just had a heart attack or have heart failure, not just plain hypertension. If you’re only dealing with high blood pressure, doctors usually reach for it when other drugs don’t cut it or if you have clear heart-related risks.
Here’s a quick comparison of Metoprolol and Benazepril on some useful metrics:
| Medication | Main Use | Typical Dose (Daily) | Cost (Generic) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metoprolol Succinate | Hypertension, Heart Failure, Angina | 25–200 mg | Low to Moderate |
| Benazepril | Hypertension, Heart Failure | 5–40 mg | Low |
Metoprolol gives you an extra layer of heart protection, but it comes with its own quirks. If you’re leaning this direction, ask your doctor about your specific heart health and whether a beta blocker is really the right move for your routine and risks.
Spironolactone
If you’re looking for a Benazepril alternative that handles more than just blood pressure, Spironolactone could be your answer. It’s technically a potassium-sparing diuretic, which basically means it helps your body get rid of extra salt and water while holding onto potassium. Doctors often reach for it when folks have resistant hypertension—that’s blood pressure that won’t budge, even after a few meds.
What stands out with Spironolactone is how it blocks aldosterone, a hormone that makes you retain salt. By keeping this hormone in check, Spironolactone reduces fluid buildup, which can really help if your blood pressure is sky-high or if you have heart failure on top of it. You might even see it prescribed for things like hormone problems or acne, but it’s a heavyweight when it comes to blood pressure—especially when other meds fail.
Pros
- Very effective for folks whose blood pressure doesn’t respond to standard meds.
- Helps lower swelling for people with heart issues.
- Usually doesn’t cause low potassium, unlike several other diuretics.
- Budget-friendly and available as a generic.
Cons
- Can bump potassium too high, especially if you have kidney issues or take other meds that increase potassium.
- Might cause breast tenderness or enlargement, especially for men.
- Peeing more often is common, especially at the start.
- Not ideal for folks with serious kidney trouble.
- May mess with hormone balance in rare cases.
Here’s a quick glance at how Spironolactone compares to Benazepril in common features:
| Feature | Spironolactone | Benazepril |
|---|---|---|
| Class | Potassium-sparing diuretic | ACE inhibitor |
| Main Side Effect | High potassium | Cough |
| Effect on Kidneys | Not for severe kidney disease | Can lower kidney function |
| Dosing | Once or twice daily | Once or twice daily |
| Generic Available | Yes | Yes |
Doctors usually run labs to check your potassium and kidney function if you’re on Spironolactone, just to play it safe. If you’re switching from Benazepril, ask whether you’ll need extra tests to start off right. Keeping an eye on your body’s signals and regular check-ups can really help prevent nasty surprises.
Conclusion and Comparison Table
Let’s be honest: picking between Benazepril alternatives is not a quick job. You’ve got different classes of blood pressure meds, and they treat hypertension in their own way. Some, like Chlorthalidone or Hydrochlorothiazide, act as diuretics—helping your body get rid of extra water and salt. Others, like Amlodipine and Metoprolol, work by relaxing blood vessels or controlling your heart rate. Then you’ve got the ARBs (Losartan, Valsartan) and ACE inhibitors (Lisinopril, Enalapril), which target hormones that tighten up your arteries. Spironolactone’s even more unique, acting like a potassium saver with some extra hormone-blocking perks.
There’s no “best” choice for everyone. Some patients love the once-a-day dosing, others avoid certain meds because of side effects like swelling, cough, or feeling dizzy. For people with diabetes, folks with kidney disease, or anyone prone to low potassium, a specific blood pressure medication might have real advantages. Cost matters too, especially if insurance doesn’t cover all brands.
Here’s a side-by-side look at the main Benazepril alternatives, so you can spot what fits your needs. Remember—talk through options with your doctor (and don’t ever stop or switch meds on your own).
| Medication | Type | How Long it Lasts | Key Pros | Main Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chlorthalidone | Thiazide-like diuretic | 24-48 hrs | Very effective, cheap, lasts long | Can drop potassium, may cause gout |
| Lisinopril | ACE inhibitor | 24 hrs | Kidney & heart friendly, protects diabetics | Cough, angioedema risk |
| Losartan | ARB | 24 hrs | Less cough than ACE, kidney friendly | Not for pregnancy, headache |
| Amlodipine | Calcium channel blocker | 24-36 hrs | Super for Black patients, rarely causes cough | Swelling (ankles), dizziness |
| Hydrochlorothiazide | Thiazide diuretic | 6-12 hrs | Affordable, widely used | Can lower potassium, higher uric acid |
| Valsartan | ARB | 24 hrs | Good for kidneys/heart, no cough | Dizziness, rare kidney function drop |
| Enalapril | ACE inhibitor | 12-24 hrs | Well-studied, heart failure option | Cough, must avoid in pregnancy |
| Metoprolol | Beta blocker | 12-24 hrs | Great for heart issues, lowers pulse | Tiredness, may hide low blood sugar |
| Spironolactone | Potassium-sparing diuretic | 24 hrs | Useful in resistant cases, helps in heart failure | Can raise potassium, breast tenderness |
If you’re bored with side effects or just need a backup to Benazepril, there is a world of proven alternatives. It’s about finding what keeps your numbers down, your head clear, and your wallet happy. Be open with your healthcare team—they’ve likely navigated this maze before and can help match your lifestyle, other health issues, and even what’s on your insurance plan.