ACE inhibitors
Blood pressure, the -pril way
Every generic name in this class ends in -pril. High blood pressure and heart failure; also used to protect the kidneys in diabetes.
Blocks the angiotensin-converting enzyme, so blood vessels relax instead of tightening.
The 5 ace inhibitors in the PTCB Top 200
| Generic | Brand | Common use |
|---|---|---|
| Lisinopril | Prinivil | hypertension, HF |
| Hydrochlorothiazide / Lisinopril | Zestoretic / Prinzide | hypertension |
| Benazepril | Lotensin | hypertension |
| Amlodipine / Benazepril | Lotrel | hypertension |
| Enalapril | Vasotec | hypertension, HF |
Tap any generic name for its full drug guide — brand↔generic, side effects, interactions and the exam tip.
What to know for the exam
- check_circleEvery generic name ends in -pril.
- check_circleA dry, persistent cough is the classic reason a patient is switched to an ARB.
- check_circleOften dispensed as a combination product with hydrochlorothiazide.
- check_circlePotassium can rise — watch salt substitutes, which are potassium chloride.
Contraindicated in pregnancy. Any ACE inhibitor prescription for a patient who may be pregnant needs pharmacist review.
-pril means ACE inhibitor; -sartan means ARB. The cough belongs to the -pril side.
Drill ace inhibitors the way the PTCE asks them
RxReflex groups the Top 200 drugs into classes like this one, then quizzes you on brand↔generic, class, side effects and interactions. Plus a guided Learn path, pharmacy math and 40+ cheat sheets. Free to start.
Frequently asked
What does the suffix -pril mean? add
A generic drug name ending in -pril identifies it as one of the ace inhibitors. High blood pressure and heart failure; also used to protect the kidneys in diabetes.
What drugs are in the ace inhibitors class? add
Lisinopril, Hydrochlorothiazide / Lisinopril, Benazepril, Amlodipine / Benazepril, Enalapril. All are in the PTCB Top 200.
What are ace inhibitors used for? add
High blood pressure and heart failure; also used to protect the kidneys in diabetes.
How do ace inhibitors work? add
Blocks the angiotensin-converting enzyme, so blood vessels relax instead of tightening.
Last reviewed August 7, 2026. For education only — not medical advice. Not affiliated with or endorsed by the PTCB.