Pharmacology · patient case question
What is the mechanism of action of lisinopril?
Patient case: Bone biology and drug mechanisms
Scenario: One histology item followed by a run of mechanism-of-action questions.
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor
- A. ARBs such as losartan block the receptor instead of the enzyme; they do not raise bradykinin, so cough is uncommon.
- B. Correct. Lisinopril blocks the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, lowering vasoconstriction and aldosterone release. The rise in bradykinin explains the characteristic dry cough and the risk of angioedema.
- C. Calcium channel blockers such as nifedipine relax vascular smooth muscle and are the group associated with gingival enlargement.
- D. Thiazides such as hydrochlorothiazide act at the distal convoluted tubule and cause hypokalaemia and xerostomia.