Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors for High Blood Pressure


Generic Name Brand Name
benazepril Lotensin
captopril Capoten
enalapril Vasotec
lisinopril Prinivil, Zestril
perindopril Aceon
quinapril Accupril
ramipril Altace
trandolapril Mavik

How It Works

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors block an enzyme needed to form a substance that narrows blood vessels. As a result, blood vessels relax and widen, making it easier for blood to flow through the vessels, which reduces blood pressure. These medicines also increase the release of water and sodium to the urine, which also lowers blood pressure.

ACE inhibitors can be used alone or in combination with a diuretic or other medicines.

Why It Is Used

These medicines are used alone for high blood pressure, or they are used with other medicines such as a diuretic.

  • ACE inhibitors are a good choice for people who have had a heart attack, because the medicine helps reduce the workload on the heart.
  • ACE inhibitors are a good choice for people who have diabetes, because this medicine does not affect blood sugar levels and may help protect the kidneys. If you have diabetes, you may take these medicines if you do not have high blood pressure but have small amounts of protein in your urine (microalbuminuria), an early sign of kidney damage.
  • ACE inhibitors may also help to prevent a heart attack or stroke.footnote 1

How Well It Works

ACE inhibitors can reduce blood pressure in people who have high blood pressure. ACE inhibitors can also help prevent a heart attack or stroke.footnote 1

They also help people who have heart failure to live longer. And they may slow or prevent kidney problems in people who have diabetes.footnote 1

Side Effects


Here are some important things to think about:


Call 911 or other emergency services right away if you have:

  • Trouble breathing.

Call your doctor if you have:

  • Hives.
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness or fainting.

Common side effects of this medicine include:

  • Dry cough.
  • Headache.


What To Think About

ACE inhibitor cough




Interactions with other medicines


For tips on taking blood pressure medicine, see:

High Blood Pressure: Taking Medicines Properly.

Taking medicine



Advice for women










ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerE. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerRobert A. Kloner, MD, PhD - Cardiology

Current as ofFebruary 20, 2015