ACE inhibitors

Generic names

• Captopril
• Enalapril
• Lisinopril
• Fosinopril
• Perindopril
• Ramipril
• Trandolapril
• Quinapril

What they are for

ACE inhibitors are used to help the heart work more efficiently or to treat high blood pressure (or both).

When you first start taking ACE inhibitors, or if your dose is increased, take your tablets when you are sitting down and stay seated for a little while afterwards. This is because the tablets may lower your blood pressure and make you feel dizzy. This should pass after the first few doses.

Possible side effects

• Altered sense of taste. This usually only lasts two to three months.
• Headache or dizziness.
• Dry cough, sore throat or deepening of the voice.
• Mild skin rash. Contact your GP if this is troublesome.
• Sore throat or feeling feverish. If you have either of these side effects you should see your GP.
• Kidney problems. When you start taking an ACE inhibitor, or your dose changes, a blood test will be carried out to check your kidney function.