ACE inhibitors: What They Do, Medicines
Also in: हिन्दी தமிழ் मराठी తెలుగు ಕನ್ನಡ বাংলা ગુજરાતી മലയാളം ਪੰਜਾਬੀ
ACE inhibitors are prescription medicines that relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure. They are used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. An example is enalapril. They must not be taken in pregnancy, and they should only be started or stopped on a doctor's advice.
Pharmacist review in progress. This page is based on the sources listed below and is being checked by our registered pharmacist.
How do ACE inhibitors work?
ACE inhibitors block an enzyme that the body uses to make angiotensin II, a hormone that narrows blood vessels. With less angiotensin II the vessels relax, the kidneys hold on to less salt and water, and blood pressure falls.
Active ingredients of this type
These active ingredients belong to ACE inhibitors. They are listed A to Z.
Common questions
Why do ACE inhibitors cause a dry cough?
A persistent dry cough is a known effect in some people, and it goes away after the medicine is stopped. Do not stop it yourself. Tell your doctor, who may suggest a different medicine.
Are ACE inhibitors safe in pregnancy?
No. They can seriously harm an unborn baby and are avoided in pregnancy. If you are pregnant, may become pregnant or are planning a baby, tell your doctor right away. Do not stop a prescribed medicine without speaking to your doctor.
What is angioedema?
It is sudden swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, and it can make breathing difficult. It is rare but serious and can happen at any time. Get emergency medical help straight away if it occurs.
Sources
- Enalapril: a medicine for high blood pressure and heart failure. NHS (UK)
- Enalapril maleate tablets: prescribing information (Amici Pharma). DailyMed, US National Library of Medicine
- ATC/DDD Index: C09AA ACE inhibitors, plain. WHO Collaborating Centre for Drug Statistics Methodology
- National Formulary of India. Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission