Pharmacy PEBC Practice Exam

Which therapeutic class do ACE inhibitors belong to?

1. Antibiotics

2. Analgesics

3. Antihypertensives

4. Anticoagulants

The correct answer is: Antihypertensives

ACE inhibitors are classified as antihypertensives because they are primarily used to manage high blood pressure. They work by inhibiting the angiotensin-converting enzyme, which prevents the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor. This mechanism leads to vasodilation and ultimately results in lowering blood pressure. Additionally, ACE inhibitors are often prescribed for heart failure, to provide renal protection in diabetic patients, and in post-myocardial infarction management, which further supports their role in cardiovascular therapy. The other categories—antibiotics, analgesics, and anticoagulants—do not reflect the pharmacological actions or therapeutic applications of ACE inhibitors.