ACE inhibitors are a group of medicines doctors use to lower blood pressure and protect the heart and kidneys. If your doctor just prescribed lisinopril, enalapril, ramipril, or captopril, this page gives you the simple facts you need: why they work, what to watch for, and how to stay safe.
ACE stands for angiotensin-converting enzyme. These drugs stop that enzyme, which lowers a hormone called angiotensin II. The result: blood vessels relax, blood pressure drops, and the heart doesn’t have to work as hard. Doctors prescribe ACE inhibitors for high blood pressure, heart failure, after a heart attack, and to slow kidney damage in people with diabetes.
Common medicines in this group include lisinopril, enalapril, ramipril, captopril, and perindopril. They’re taken by mouth, usually once a day, though dosing can vary. Your doctor will choose one based on your health, other medicines you take, and how your body responds.
The most common side effect people notice is a dry, persistent cough. It can be annoying enough that doctors switch you to a different class of drug. Less common but more serious issues include high potassium (hyperkalemia), a drop in kidney function, low blood pressure, and rare but dangerous swelling of the face or throat (angioedema). If you have swelling or trouble breathing, get emergency help right away.
Before and after starting an ACE inhibitor, your doctor will likely check blood pressure, kidney function (creatinine), and potassium. Expect a blood test within a week or two of starting or changing the dose. If your kidneys were already weak or you use potassium supplements, monitoring becomes more important.
Avoid taking NSAID painkillers (ibuprofen, naproxen) regularly while on ACE inhibitors unless your doctor says it’s okay. NSAIDs can reduce how well ACE inhibitors work and raise the risk of kidney problems. Also avoid salt substitutes or supplements that contain potassium without checking with your provider.
Start slow. If you feel dizzy when standing up or notice lightheadedness after the first dose, sit or lie down until it passes and tell your doctor. That initial drop in blood pressure is common and often resolves after a few days.
Never take ACE inhibitors if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. These drugs can harm a developing baby. If pregnancy is possible, discuss other blood pressure options with your clinician right away.
Quick checklist: know your exact medicine name and dose, get baseline blood tests, avoid NSAIDs and unmonitored potassium, report cough or swelling, and follow up with your doctor for repeat labs. With the right care, ACE inhibitors can be safe and very effective at protecting your heart and kidneys.
An in-depth look at alternatives to beta blockers, from ACE inhibitors and ARBs to surprising non-drug strategies like yoga. Learn the latest facts and tips.