Blood pressure medications that cause a dry cough and a hoarse voice.

By SWA

Explanation: Negative experiences with blood pressure medications, particularly in connection with bradykinin and the kidneys

Following a COVID-19 infection, an increasing number of patients are experiencing high blood pressure and hoarseness as side effects of their blood pressure medications. A specific issue in this context is bradykinin-mediated angioedema, a recurring form of angioedema triggered by the vasoactive mediator bradykinin.

ACE inhibitors such as lisinopril (known under brand names like Lisigamma® or Acerbon®) belong to the class of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and are used to treat arterial hypertension (high blood pressure), heart failure (weakened heart muscle), and for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. Other drugs in this class include ramipril, captopril, enalapril, perindopril, and zofenopril.

A common problem with ACE inhibitors is coughing, which is induced by bradykinin and substance P (SP). This occurs because ACE inhibitors block the breakdown of bradykinin, leading to its accumulation and the associated side effects. This accumulation can also result in hoarseness.

Other blood pressure medications and their potential side effects:

  • Beta-blockers: These can cause bronchoconstriction by blocking the bronchial β2-receptor.

  • Calcium channel blockers (CCBs): These can lead to gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), which in turn may cause dry coughing.

  • Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs): These pose a lower risk of inducing cough, as unlike ACE inhibitors, they do not interfere with bradykinin degradation.

Overall, all of these classes of medications (beta-blockers, CCBs, ACE inhibitors, and ARBs) can cause various side effects, which may become more pronounced in patients after a COVID-19 infection. Therefore, individualized treatment and close monitoring of therapy are especially important in order to ensure the best possible care and to minimize unwanted side effects such as coughing and hoarseness.

© 2000-2025 Sieglinde W. Alexander. All writings by Sieglinde W. Alexander have a fife year copy right. Library of Congress Card Number: LCN 00-192742


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