Kentucky Medication Aide (KMA) State Practice Exam

What is a side effect of Captopril?

1. Drowsiness

2. Orthostatic hypotension

3. Weight gain

4. Dry mouth

The correct answer is: Orthostatic hypotension

Captopril is an ACE inhibitor commonly used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. One notable side effect of Captopril is orthostatic hypotension, which occurs when a person experiences a drop in blood pressure upon standing up after sitting or lying down. This drop can lead to dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting, particularly in older adults or those who are dehydrated. The mechanism behind this side effect involves the medication's ability to prevent the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a hormone that regulates blood pressure. By reducing blood pressure through vasodilation, this drug can significantly impact blood flow and blood pressure regulation, especially when changing positions. In contrast, the other options are less commonly associated with Captopril. While drowsiness, weight gain, and dry mouth can occur with various medications, they are not primary side effects associated with Captopril specifically. Therefore, understanding that orthostatic hypotension is particularly relevant to how Captopril operates can help clarify its implications for patient safety and monitoring in clinical practice.