PTCB Certified Pharmacy Technician (PTCE)MedicationsHard
A patient presents a prescription for 'Lisinopril 10 mg #30, take 1 tablet by mouth daily.' The patient reports having a persistent dry cough since starting the medication. Which drug class is Lisinopril, and what is the appropriate action for the technician?
- AAngiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitor; notify the pharmacist immediately regarding the potential side effect.
- BBeta-blocker; suggest the patient drink more water to alleviate the cough.
- CAngiotensin II Receptor Blocker (ARB); advise the patient to monitor symptoms and complete the prescription.
- DCalcium Channel Blocker (CCB); reassure the patient that a cough is not associated with this medication.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitor; notify the pharmacist immediately regarding the potential side effect.
Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor, a class of drugs well-known for causing a persistent, dry cough in some patients due to the accumulation of bradykinin. This side effect can be bothersome and may require a change in medication. The technician must recognize this specific drug class and its common side effect and escalate it to the pharmacist for assessment and potential intervention.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Lisinopril is not a beta-blocker. Suggesting more water does not address the underlying drug-induced cough.
- C. Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor, not an ARB. Monitoring without pharmacist assessment is inappropriate for a significant side effect.
- D. Lisinopril is not a CCB. A cough is indeed associated with ACE inhibitors.
ACE Inhibitor Cough
A common, persistent, dry, non-productive cough that can occur in patients taking Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, often leading to discontinuation.
- Caused by accumulation of bradykinin in the airways.
- Can develop weeks to months after starting the medication.
- Usually resolves within 1-4 weeks after discontinuation.
Memory trick: Don't ACE the Cough, Block the Bradykinin's Rough!