What is a common side effect associated with ACE inhibitors?

• A. Increased blood sugar
• B. Dry cough
• C. Weight gain
• D. Fatigue

Answer: (B)

A common side effect associated with ACE inhibitors is a dry cough. This occurs due to the accumulation of bradykinin, which is not broken down as efficiently when ACE inhibitors block the angiotensin-converting enzyme. Bradykinin promotes vasodilation and can stimulate sensory nerves, leading to the sensation of a cough. This side effect is significant enough that some patients may need to discontinue the medication and consider alternative therapies if the cough persists.

Other options such as increased blood sugar, weight gain, and fatigue may occur in certain contexts but are not directly linked to the mechanism of action of ACE inhibitors. Increased blood sugar is more commonly associated with steroid medications or certain diuretics; weight gain might occur due to fluid retention or other medications; and fatigue can have various causes unrelated to ACE inhibitors specifically. Thus, the dry cough is classically recognized as a hallmark effect of this class of medications.