The Mechanism of ACE Inhibitors
ACE inhibitors are a type of medication prescribed to lower blood pressure. Their name, which stands for angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor, gives some insight into how they work. Your body naturally produces a hormone called angiotensin II that can affect you in several ways. One way is by making blood vessels constrict. Narrower vessels make it harder for the heart to pump blood through your circulatory system, causing blood pressure to rise. According to the Mayo Clinic, angiotensin II also can increase the levels of sodium and water in your body, which can further increase blood pressure. ACE inhibitors work by blocking the effects of this enzyme. The medication enables the blood vessels to expand and relax. As a result, your heart works more efficiently, there is less resistance to blood flow and your blood pressure decreases.
Interactions with Other Drugs
ACE inhibitors can interact with other drugs, increasing or decreasing their effects. Tell your doctor about other medications you are taking, including herbal supplements. Common drugs that interact with ACE inhibitors are diuretics and potassium-containing medicines or supplements. Doctors commonly prescribe ACE inhibitors with diuretics to increase their effectiveness. Regular use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), such as Advil and Aleve, can reduce the effectiveness of ACE inhibitors. The Texas Heart Institute advises not drinking alcohol while taking ACE inhibitors as it can excessively lower your blood pressure, making you susceptible to fainting and dizziness.
Side Effects
Many high-blood pressure or anti-hypertensive medications have side effects. ACE inhibitors are often prescribed by doctors because they often don't cause undesirable side effects. They are also preferred because they do not affect blood sugar levels and provide some protection for the kidneys. However, in some individuals, ACE inhibitors can cause a dry cough. Less common side effects include: headache, diarrhea, upset stomach, appetite loss, sensitivity to sunlight, fever, numbness, tingling, joint pain, dizziness and fatigue. In rare cases, ACE inhibitors also can cause chills, bruising, jaundice, vomiting and swelling in the face, hands or feet (American Heart Association). Do not stop taking your medication and consult your doctor immediately if you experience any of these side effects. Stopping your medication on your own can sometimes exacerbate symptoms. Side effects can be eliminated or reduced by changing medications or the dosage with the help of your doctor.
Brand Names of ACE Inhibitors
ACE inhibitors in the United States: Accupril (quinapril), Aceon (perindopril), Altace (ramipril), Capoten (captopril), Lotensin (benazepril), Mavik (trandolapril), Monopril (fosinopril), Prinivil (lisinopril), Prinzide (lisinopril with a diuretic), Univasc (moexipril), Vaseretic (enalapril with a diuretic), Vasotec (enalaprilat, enalapril), Zestoretic (lisinopril with a diuretic) and Zestril (lisinopril).
