Which drug class blocks the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II?

Which drug class blocks the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II?

• A. Angiotensin receptor blockers
• B. Alpha-1 blockers
• C. ACE inhibitors
• D. Calcium channel blockers

Answer: (C)

The drug class that blocks the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II is ACE inhibitors. They inhibit the angiotensin-converting enzyme, so angiotensin I cannot be transformed into angiotensin II. With less angiotensin II, there is reduced vasoconstriction and less aldosterone release, leading to lower blood pressure and decreased sodium and water retention. This mechanism differs from the other options: angiotensin receptor blockers prevent angiotensin II from acting at its receptor rather than stopping its formation; calcium channel blockers reduce calcium entry to cause vasodilation via a different pathway; alpha-1 blockers inhibit sympathetic vasoconstriction by blocking alpha-1 receptors. ACE inhibitors are widely used for hypertension, heart failure, and certain kidney-protective benefits, with possible side effects like cough and hyperkalemia.

The drug class that blocks the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II is ACE inhibitors. They inhibit the angiotensin-converting enzyme, so angiotensin I cannot be transformed into angiotensin II. With less angiotensin II, there is reduced vasoconstriction and less aldosterone release, leading to lower blood pressure and decreased sodium and water retention. This mechanism differs from the other options: angiotensin receptor blockers prevent angiotensin II from acting at its receptor rather than stopping its formation; calcium channel blockers reduce calcium entry to cause vasodilation via a different pathway; alpha-1 blockers inhibit sympathetic vasoconstriction by blocking alpha-1 receptors. ACE inhibitors are widely used for hypertension, heart failure, and certain kidney-protective benefits, with possible side effects like cough and hyperkalemia.