Which drug in the patient’s regimen is an ACE inhibitor?

• A. Ramipril
• B. Amlodipine
• C. Cetirizine
• D. Paracetamol

Answer: (A)

ACE inhibitors suppress the formation of angiotensin II, leading to vasodilation and reduced aldosterone, which lowers blood pressure. Drugs in this class commonly end with the suffix -pril, so Ramipril is the ACE inhibitor in the regimen. The other options belong to different drug classes: amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker, cetirizine is an antihistamine, and paracetamol is an analgesic/antipyretic. Recognizing the -pril ending is a quick way to identify ACE inhibitors, and remembering their effect on the renin–angiotensin system explains why this drug fits the category. Be aware of potential cough or hyperkalemia and the pregnancy caution associated with ACE inhibitors.