What is a common side effect of ACE inhibitors?

A persistent cough is a well-documented side effect of ACE inhibitors, which are medications commonly prescribed to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. This cough occurs due to the accumulation of bradykinin, a peptide that is normally broken down by angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE). When ACE is inhibited, bradykinin levels can rise, leading to irritation in the airway and resulting in a chronic, dry cough.

While weight gain, dizziness, and rash can occur with various medications or health conditions, they are not commonly associated specifically with ACE inhibitors in the same way as a persistent cough. The cough can be bothersome enough that some patients will need to switch to a different class of antihypertensive medication if it becomes intolerable. This highlights the importance of monitoring for side effects in patients who are taking ACE inhibitors, as managing discomfort can significantly impact treatment adherence and overall patient outcomes.