Which class of medications directly inhibits the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II?

• A. ACE Inhibitors
• B. Beta Blockers
• C. ARBs
• D. Calcium Channel Blockers

Answer: (A)

Directly inhibiting the enzyme that converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II is what ACE inhibitors do. By blocking this enzyme, they lower angiotensin II levels, which reduces vasoconstriction and decrease aldosterone release. The result is lower blood pressure and less sodium and water retention. ACE inhibitors also raise bradykinin levels because ACE normally degrades bradykinin, contributing to additional vasodilation but sometimes causing cough or angioedema. Other options don’t achieve this direct block: beta blockers mainly reduce renin release and sympathetic effects but don’t stop the conversion; ARBs block the angiotensin II receptor rather than its production; calcium channel blockers act on calcium influx in smooth muscle and heart and don’t affect the RAAS cascade.