Which adverse effect of ACE inhibitors requires urgent attention?

Which adverse effect of ACE inhibitors requires urgent attention?

• A. Mild fatigue
• B. Rash
• C. Angioedema
• D. Nausea

Answer: (C)

Angioedema from ACE inhibitors is a medical emergency because swelling can rapidly involve the face, tongue, and throat, threatening the airway. When this occurs, the medication must be discontinued immediately and the patient evaluated for airway compromise with readiness to secure the airway if swelling progresses. This risk makes angioedema the urgent adverse effect, unlike mild fatigue, a rash, or nausea, which are common but not typically life-threatening emergencies. Angioedema can occur at any time during therapy and is bradykinin-mediated, underscoring why prompt recognition and action are essential.

Angioedema from ACE inhibitors is a medical emergency because swelling can rapidly involve the face, tongue, and throat, threatening the airway. When this occurs, the medication must be discontinued immediately and the patient evaluated for airway compromise with readiness to secure the airway if swelling progresses. This risk makes angioedema the urgent adverse effect, unlike mild fatigue, a rash, or nausea, which are common but not typically life-threatening emergencies. Angioedema can occur at any time during therapy and is bradykinin-mediated, underscoring why prompt recognition and action are essential.