Which medication is NOT an ACE inhibitor?

Which medication is NOT an ACE inhibitor?

• A. Lisinopril
• B. Benazepril
• C. Losartan
• D. Enalapril

Answer: (C)

ACE inhibitors work by blocking the enzyme that converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II, reducing angiotensin II–mediated vasoconstriction and aldosterone release. Drugs that end with -pril are typically ACE inhibitors, including lisinopril, benazepril, and enalapril. Losartan, however, is an angiotensin II receptor blocker; it prevents angiotensin II from acting at its receptor rather than inhibiting the enzyme itself. That difference in action means it is not an ACE inhibitor.

ACE inhibitors work by blocking the enzyme that converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II, reducing angiotensin II–mediated vasoconstriction and aldosterone release. Drugs that end with -pril are typically ACE inhibitors, including lisinopril, benazepril, and enalapril. Losartan, however, is an angiotensin II receptor blocker; it prevents angiotensin II from acting at its receptor rather than inhibiting the enzyme itself. That difference in action means it is not an ACE inhibitor.