Houston Methodist Pharmacology Practice Exam 2026 – Comprehensive Test Preparation

The side effect associated with both ACE inhibitors and NSAIDs is edema. ACE inhibitors, which are commonly used to manage hypertension and heart failure, can cause a build-up of fluid in the body due to their effects on renal function and fluid balance. This fluid retention can result in peripheral edema.

On the other hand, NSAIDs, which are often utilized for their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, can also lead to fluid retention and edema. This is as a result of their effects on kidney function, where they can interfere with the regulation of blood flow, potentially increasing sodium and water retention, thereby causing edema.

Understanding the mechanisms of both drug classes aids in recognizing why edema is a common side effect, as both influence renal function and fluid homeostasis in the body.