Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors

Question 1

What are the names of some common ACE inhibitors?

Answer 1

Benzapril (Lotensin)
Captopril (Capten)
Enalalpril (Vasotec)
Lisinopril (Zestril)
Ramipril (Altace)

Question 2

What does ACE stand for?

Answer 2

Angiotensin-converting enzyme

Question 3

MOA

Answer 3

Inhibits the enzyme that is responsible for converting angiotensin I –> II (block vasoconstriction)

Question 4

Describe the effect of angiotensin II (that is blocked by ACE inhibitors).

Answer 4

angiotensin II –> potent vasoconstrictor (blocking it causes vasodilation, which will decrease peripheral resistance and decrease BP)

Question 5

Does angiotensin II cause vasoconstriction or vasodilation?

Answer 5

Vasoconstriction

Question 6

Do ACE inhibitors cause vasoconstriction or vasodilation?

Answer 6

Vasodilation (they block angiotensin II from being formed, which is a vasoconstrictor)

Question 7

What suffix is associated with ACE inhibitors?

Answer 7

-pril

Question 8

What are indications for an ACE inhibitor?

Answer 8

HTN
CHF
MI

Question 9

What are some common adverse reactions of ACE inhibitors (Lisinopril; Enalapril; Ramipril)?

Answer 9

HYPERkalemia
Lightheadedness
Dry cough (in ~20% of Pt.’s)
Angioedema (less common but more severe)

Question 10

Why is it important to know if a Pt. with a dry cough is on an ACE inhibitor?

Answer 10

It is a common SE and is probably not indicative of infection

Question 11

Why is angioedema a severe adverse reaction to monitor for in Pt.’s taking ACE inhibitors?

Answer 11

It causes edema in the vessels, which can close the throat, and fluid can shift into airways

Question 12

T/F: ACE inhibitors are well-tolerated.

Answer 12

T