ACE inhibitors for hypertension

They are prescribed as part of a wider hypertension plan and may be particularly useful when certain heart or kidney conditions coexist. The choice still depends on your health, other medicines and tolerance.

These medicines block angiotensin-converting enzyme, reducing production of a substance that tightens blood vessels. Wider, more relaxed vessels lower resistance to blood flow. This reduces blood pressure and can lessen strain on the heart.

Hypertension often causes no noticeable symptoms, so feeling well does not show whether treatment is working. Blood-pressure readings provide that information. A clinician may check kidney function and potassium before treatment and again after starting or changing the dose because the medicine can alter both.

Take the prescribed dose consistently and follow the clinic's instructions for missed tablets. Keep a list of all medicines and supplements, including salt substitutes, because some contain potassium. Check before using anti-inflammatory painkillers, which can affect the kidneys and the medicine's action.

Record home blood-pressure readings if your clinician recommends them, noting symptoms such as dizziness. Vomiting, diarrhoea or poor fluid intake can increase the chance of dehydration and kidney problems; contact your clinic for medicine advice during such an illness. ACE inhibitors are not used during pregnancy, so discuss pregnancy plans promptly and seek advice if pregnancy is possible.

A dry, irritating cough can occur and merits a medication review if troublesome. Seek urgent help for severe weakness, collapse, very little urine or a markedly irregular heartbeat. Swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, breathing difficulty, or trouble swallowing requires emergency care because it may be angioedema.

Confirm your target blood-pressure range, when laboratory monitoring is due, and what to do if you become dehydrated. Ask which non-prescription medicines to avoid, how a persistent cough would be handled, and whom to contact if your home readings or symptoms change.