Which of the following is a common adverse effect of ACE inhibitors?

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Multiple Choice

Which of the following is a common adverse effect of ACE inhibitors?

ACE inhibitors raise bradykinin levels by blocking its breakdown. That buildup can irritate the airways and trigger a dry, persistent cough, which is the most well-known and common adverse effect associated with these meds. In some cases, this irritation may also contribute to bronchospasm in susceptible individuals, but the hallmark reaction clinicians watch for is the bothersome cough that leads patients to consider switching to a different class. Other options don’t fit as well: these drugs don’t typically cause hyperglycemia or a rapid increase in heart rate; they often lower blood pressure and can cause hyperkalemia (not hypokalemia) due to reduced aldosterone. A practical takeaway is that the new, persistent cough is a classic clue pointing to an ACE inhibitor as the cause, and ARBs may be used as an alternative if the cough is troublesome.

ACE inhibitors raise bradykinin levels by blocking its breakdown. That buildup can irritate the airways and trigger a dry, persistent cough, which is the most well-known and common adverse effect associated with these meds. In some cases, this irritation may also contribute to bronchospasm in susceptible individuals, but the hallmark reaction clinicians watch for is the bothersome cough that leads patients to consider switching to a different class.

Other options don’t fit as well: these drugs don’t typically cause hyperglycemia or a rapid increase in heart rate; they often lower blood pressure and can cause hyperkalemia (not hypokalemia) due to reduced aldosterone. A practical takeaway is that the new, persistent cough is a classic clue pointing to an ACE inhibitor as the cause, and ARBs may be used as an alternative if the cough is troublesome.

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