ACE (Angiotensin Converting Enzyme) Inhibitors

What do they do?

Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors block the effects of angiotensin II, a hormone produced by your kidneys. Thereby, ACE inhibitors cause your blood vessels to relax and this lowers your blood pressure. Accordingly, the work load of your heart is reduced.

What are the expected benefits?

ACE inhibitors reduce heart failure-related hospitalisations, prolong life, and improve exercise tolerance and quality of life.

Side effects

Since ACE inhibitors may affect your blood pressure, it should be monitoring by yourself regularly.
Your potassium level might increase and your kidney function might be affected. Therefore your doctor will confirm that it is still within a safe range by ordering blood tests.
Some people develop a dry cough with ACE inhibitors. If this happens to you, your doctor can lower the dose or switch you to another medication.
Less commonly, people may experience changes in taste.
Rarely, people taking ACE inhibitors develop skin rashes.
Very rarely swelling of lips or throat may occur. This is an alarming symptom! You should get medical help immediately if this happens!

Tip

Your doctor may advise you to take the first dose of your ACE inhibitor before going to bed to try and prevent dizziness. In case you feel dizzy in the morning, try moving your feet back and forth about ten times before you stand up. Or, you may find it helpful to dangle your legs over the side of the bed before sitting up, and then sit at the side of the bed for a minute before standing. Avoid standing up too quickly, either from sitting or bending down, as this can make you feel dizzy. Take your time and allow your body to adjust!