Ramipril belongs to which class of antihypertensive drugs?

• A. ARB
• B. Beta blocker
• C. ACE inhibitor
• D. Calcium channel blocker

Answer: (C)

Ramipril is an ACE inhibitor. It works by blocking angiotensin-converting enzyme, which normally converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a strong vasoconstrictor that also stimulates aldosterone release. By reducing angiotensin II, ACE inhibitors promote vasodilation and decrease sodium and water retention, leading to lower blood pressure. ACE inhibitors can also raise bradykinin levels, which helps with vasodilation but can cause a cough or, rarely, angioedema. This distinguishes ramipril from other antihypertensives: ARBs block the angiotensin II receptor instead of inhibiting ACE, beta blockers slow the heart and reduce its output, and calcium channel blockers prevent calcium entry into smooth muscle and cardiac cells to cause relaxation.