ACE inhibitors are a class of drugs that lower blood pressure. These medications are prescribed to many diabetic patients to prevent kidney damage and reduce cardiovascular risks.

ACE inhibitors can be prescribed in the form of a tablet, capsule, liquid or intravenous injection. In some cases, they are prescribed with another antihypertensive, such as a calcium channel blocker or angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB).

People taking ACE inhibitors or any other antihypertensive need to be careful about spending too much time in the heat. They are encouraged to drink plenty of liquids during exercise or while outside in hot weather. The physician’s directions about exercise, activity levels and diet should also be followed. People taking ACE inhibitors should consult their physician before taking certain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

The most common side effect of ACE inhibitors is cough, which is usually not serious. Regular blood tests are needed to screen for a potentially serious side effect called hyperkalemia, an abnormally high level of potassium in the blood.