Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors

ACE Inhibitors are a class of drugs that are used to lower blood pressure. These drugs interfere with the production of enzymes that cause narrowing of the blood vessels. As a result, patients’ blood vessels widen while they are on the drug. This tends to lower blood pressure, which reduces the patient’s risk of heart attack or stroke.

Warnings/Side Effects

Pregnant women or women who may become pregnant should not use ACE inhibitors. These drugs have been linked with serious or fatal birth defects in unborn children.

ACE inhibitors have also been linked to kidney disease and kidney failure. Patients who already suffer from kidney disease are at increased risk of kidney problems if they take this type of blood pressure medication.

Anyone who takes blood pressure medication is at risk of low blood pressure, which is characterized by feeling dizzy and lightheaded.