Anti-Hypertensive Medications: ACE (angiotensin converting enzyme) INHIBITORS
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ACE inhibitors stop the production of a chemical (angiotensin II) that makes blood vessels narrow and leads to high blood pressure. By blocking the production of this chemical, ACE inhibitors help control high blood pressure and allow any damaged heart muscle to heal properly. They are typically prescribed after a heart attack to help the healing process and allow the heart to pump blood more efficiently. They are also routinely used for people with heart failure, a condition in which the heart is unable to pump enough blood to supply the body's needs.
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Call your provider if you experience any of the following:
- Chest pain
- Extreme weakness
- Fever, chills, sore throat
- Hoarseness
- Irregular heart beat
- Numbness in the hands or feet
- Skin rash, severe itching or hives
- Swelling of the face, mouth, hands or feet
- Trouble breathing or swallowing
- Yellowing of the eyes or skin
- Cough (dry and continuing)
- Headache
- Dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting or tiredness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Loss of taste
If you have any problems that you feel are medication-related, please consult your healthcare provider.
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- Tell your provider if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have liver disease.
- Avoid alcohol consumption.
- These medicines may make you dizzy.
- Avoid driving or using dangerous machinery.
- These medications may keep the body from loosing potassium.
- Sometimes the amount of potassium in your blood can get too high, which may be dangerous.
- Talk with your provider about limiting potassium in your diet.
- Tell your dentist you are on this medication.
- This medication can cause harm to an unborn baby. Use an effective form of birth control and if you become pregnant while using this medication, tell your provider right away.
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