ACE inhibitor

angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor : any one of a group of drugs used in the treatment of raised blood pressure and heart failure. ACE inhibitors act by interfering with the action of the enzyme that converts the inactive ANGIOTENSIN I to the powerful artery constrictor angiotensin II. The absence of this substance allows arteries to widen and the blood pressure to drop. ACE inhibitors are administered by mouth; they include CAPTOPRIL , ENALAPRIL , perindopril (Coversyl), and ramipril (Tritace). Possible side-effects include weakness, dizziness, loss of appetite, and skin rashes.