Does benicar (olmesartan) have fewer side effects than lisinopril?

ARB's vs ACEI: Benicar (olmesartan) an arb works similarly in many ways to lisiniopril (acei). They both block at different points in the renin-angiotensin system. A by-product of the acei however is a buildup in a chemical called bradykinin, which can produce throt irritation and a dry cough in 5-10% patients. A cough like this is much less likely with an arb agent like benicar (olmesartan).

Side effect: A recent study found sprue-like enteropathy in patients taking benicar. The label has been changed to reflect this recent information. The condition mimics gluten intolerance and results and produces abdominal cramping and loose stool. This condition goes away when patients cease taking olmesartan, but can result in misdiagnosis of celiac or other GI conditions.