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

User dependent: Both Benicar (olmesartan) and Lisinopril are used to treat high blood pressure. Both block the effects of angiotension--a hormone that causes constriction of blood vessels and increases blood pressure. Lisinopril has been available for several years and is available as a generic (cheaper) but can cause an annoying cough. Benicar (olmesartan) is a newer drug and is more expensive. Both can cause high potassium levels.