Converting-Enzyme Inhibitors in the Treatment of Hypertension

Anne Hume, University of Rhode Island
Joyce Generali, Roger Williams Hospital
William John Powell, Merck & Co., Inc.
Robert I. Henkin, Taste and Smell Clinic
Gordon H. Williams, Brigham and Women's Hospital
J. Koch-Weser, F. Hoffmann-La Roche AG
Haralambos Gavras, University School of Medicine

Abstract

To the Editor: In reference to the review article concerning converting-enzyme inhibitors by Dr. Williams (Dec. 8 issue),1 one adverse effect deserves further comment. Although the absolute frequency of coughing induced by angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors is unknown, it is the most commonly reported adverse effect of this class of drug. In the past 15 months we have forwarded five reports of coughing induced by angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Three cases were associated with enalapril, and two with captopril. All the patients were women between the ages of 56 and 61 years. In three patients, the cough. © 1989, Massachusetts Medical Society. All rights reserved.