Learning About ACE Inhibitors

What are ACE inhibitors?

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors block an enzyme that makes blood vessels narrow. As a result, the blood vessels relax and widen. This lowers blood pressure. These medicines also put more water and salt into the urine. This lowers blood pressure too.

You may take this kind of medicine if you have high blood pressure. Or you may take it if you have heart problems, kidney problems, or diabetes.

If you have coronary artery disease, this medicine can help reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Examples

For each medicine in the list, the generic name is first. This is followed by any brand names.

• Benazepril (Lotensin)
• Enalapril (Vasotec)
• Lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril)
• Ramipril (Altace)

This is not a complete list of ACE inhibitor medicines.

Possible side effects

All medicines can cause side effects.

Side effects of ACE inhibitors may include:

• A chronic, dry, hacking cough.
• Low blood pressure. This can make you feel dizzy or weak.
• Too much potassium in your body.
• Swelling of your lips, tongue, or face. Rarely, swelling becomes severe and makes it hard to breathe. In this case, you may need treatment right away.

You may have other side effects or reactions not listed here. Check the information that comes with your medicine or ask your doctor or pharmacist about the side effects of each medicine you take.

What to know about taking this medicine

• Be safe with medicines. Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Contact your doctor if you think you are having a problem with your medicine or if you miss a dose of a medicine.
• ACE inhibitors can cause a chronic, dry, hacking cough. Talk to your doctor if you have a dry cough. You may need a different medicine.
• These medicines can cause an allergic reaction. This can cause a little swelling. Or it can cause red bumps on your skin that hurt. In rare cases, the swelling may make it hard for you to breathe. If this happens, you may need treatment right away.
• Do not take these medicines if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant.
• Taking some medicines together can cause problems. Tell your doctor or pharmacist all the medicines you take. These include other prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, supplements, and herbal remedies.
• You may need regular blood and urine tests to see if the medicines are causing any problems.