ACE inhibitors should be avoided during pregnancy. Which of the following is an example of an ACE inhibitor?

ACE inhibitors should be avoided during pregnancy. Which of the following is an example of an ACE inhibitor?

• A. Lisinopril
• B. Losartan
• C. Hydrochlorothiazide
• D. Furosemide

Answer: (A)

The main concept is recognizing an ACE inhibitor and knowing why these drugs are avoided in pregnancy. ACE inhibitors block the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, which lowers blood pressure but can cause fetal kidney damage and other serious fetal harm, especially after the first trimester. Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor, which is why it’s the correct example. Losartan is an ARB, not an ACE inhibitor. Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic, and furosemide is a loop diuretic. In pregnancy, ACE inhibitors (and ARBs) are generally avoided; safe antihypertensive alternatives include medications like labetalol, methyldopa, or nifedipine.

The main concept is recognizing an ACE inhibitor and knowing why these drugs are avoided in pregnancy. ACE inhibitors block the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, which lowers blood pressure but can cause fetal kidney damage and other serious fetal harm, especially after the first trimester.

Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor, which is why it’s the correct example. Losartan is an ARB, not an ACE inhibitor. Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic, and furosemide is a loop diuretic. In pregnancy, ACE inhibitors (and ARBs) are generally avoided; safe antihypertensive alternatives include medications like labetalol, methyldopa, or nifedipine.