Which parameter should be monitored when a patient is on ACE inhibitors?

Which parameter should be monitored when a patient is on ACE inhibitors?

• A. Renal function
• B. Liver enzymes
• C. Hematocrit
• D. Pulmonary function

Answer: (A)

ACE inhibitors influence kidney blood flow by dilating the efferent arteriole, which lowers intraglomerular pressure and can reduce the glomerular filtration rate. In patients with existing kidney impairment or bilateral renal artery stenosis, this effect can cause a rise in creatinine, signaling decreased kidney function. They also reduce aldosterone, which can lead to hyperkalemia, so checking potassium is important too. Because of these direct effects on the kidneys, renal function monitoring (creatinine, eGFR) is the key parameter to track when a patient is on ACE inhibitors. Baseline values plus follow-up labs after starting or increasing the dose are standard practice. Liver enzymes, hematocrit, and pulmonary function aren’t routinely affected in a way that requires regular monitoring for ACE inhibitors, so they aren’t the primary parameters to watch.

ACE inhibitors influence kidney blood flow by dilating the efferent arteriole, which lowers intraglomerular pressure and can reduce the glomerular filtration rate. In patients with existing kidney impairment or bilateral renal artery stenosis, this effect can cause a rise in creatinine, signaling decreased kidney function. They also reduce aldosterone, which can lead to hyperkalemia, so checking potassium is important too. Because of these direct effects on the kidneys, renal function monitoring (creatinine, eGFR) is the key parameter to track when a patient is on ACE inhibitors. Baseline values plus follow-up labs after starting or increasing the dose are standard practice. Liver enzymes, hematocrit, and pulmonary function aren’t routinely affected in a way that requires regular monitoring for ACE inhibitors, so they aren’t the primary parameters to watch.