Side effects

Side effects of ACE inhibitors may include:

• Dry cough
• Increased potassium levels in the blood (hyperkalemia)
• Fatigue
• Dizziness from blood pressure going too low
• Headaches
• Loss of taste

Rarely, ACE inhibitors can cause some areas of the tissues to swell (angioedema). If swelling occurs in the throat, it can be life-threatening.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) and naproxen sodium (Aleve), decrease the effectiveness of ACE inhibitors. Taking an occasional dose of these medications shouldn't affect how an ACE inhibitor works, but talk to your doctor if you regularly take NSAIDs.

Taking ACE inhibitors during pregnancy increases the risk of birth defects in the baby. If you're pregnant or plan to become pregnant, talk to your doctor about other options to treat high blood pressure.