Ramipril is used to treat essential hypertension. Which statement correctly describes its drug class?

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

Answer: (B)

Ramipril belongs to a class that inhibits an enzyme in the renin–angiotensin system. By blocking the angiotensin-converting enzyme, it prevents the formation of angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor. With less angiotensin II, blood vessels relax and aldosterone release decreases, leading to reduced blood pressure. Ramipril is given as a prodrug that is activated to its active form, ramiprilat, to exert this effect. This class is known for effects like a potential dry cough and a risk of hyperkalemia due to bradykinin accumulation and altered aldosterone, and rarely angioedema. It is not a beta-blocker, which slow heart rate and reduce cardiac output; nor an ARB, which blocks the angiotensin II receptor rather than its production; nor a calcium channel blocker, which inhibits calcium entry into vascular smooth muscle.