Persistent Cough Linked to Blood Pressure Medication
by by Pharmily · 21 Jul 2025
Date: 05 Feb 2026
If you or someone you know has been taking blood pressure medicine and developed a cough for no clear reason, you’re not alone.
Some blood pressure drugs — especially a class called ACE inhibitors — are well-known for causing a persistent, dry cough in some people.
Understanding why this happens and what alternatives exist can help you manage your health more comfortably and safely.
Why Does Blood Pressure Medicine Cause a Persistent Cough?
The most common blood pressure medications linked with a cough are ACE inhibitors, such as lisinopril, enalapril, and ramipril.
These medicines are effective at lowering blood pressure, but for many people they come with a frustrating side effect — a dry, tickly cough that just won’t go away.
How It Happens
ACE inhibitors work by blocking an enzyme (the angiotensin-converting enzyme) that plays a role in tightening blood vessels. By blocking this enzyme, your blood vessels relax and your blood pressure goes down.
However, that same enzyme also breaks down a molecule called bradykinin. When ACE inhibitors block the enzyme, bradykinin levels go up in your lungs.
Bradykinin can irritate nerve endings in the airway, leading to that persistent dry cough many people notice.
What the Cough Feels Like
- Usually dry and tickly
- May be worse at night
- Often persistent — lasting weeks or even months
- Does not come with phlegm like in a cold
The cough can begin weeks or months after starting the medication, which is why many people don’t immediately connect the two.
Is the Cough Dangerous?
Good news: the cough itself is usually not harmful, but it can be irritating and disruptive, especially if it affects your sleep, daily life, or makes you want to stop medication.
You should speak to your healthcare provider if:
- The cough is affecting your quality of life
- You’re waking up at night
- It began after starting a new blood pressure medication
Important: Never stop or change your blood pressure medication on your own without talking to a healthcare professional.
What Are Safer Alternatives to ACE Inhibitors?
1. ARBs (Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers)
ARBs are the top alternative for people who can’t tolerate ACE inhibitors due to cough. They work in a similar way to lower blood pressure but don’t raise bradykinin levels, so the cough is much less likely. Common examples include:
- Losartan
- Valsartan
- Telmisartan
Your doctor can help choose which one fits your health profile best.
2. Calcium Channel Blockers and Other Classes
If ARBs aren’t suitable or don’t work well for you, other classes like calcium channel blockers and diuretics may be options — and they aren’t associated with a bradykinin-related cough.
Supportive Products Available at Pharmily Limited Kenya
While medication changes should always be handled by a healthcare professional, certain supportive products can help soothe symptoms and support heart health during recovery.
Here are four relevant products available at Pharmily Limited Kenya:
1. Benylin Dry Cough Syrup
Benylin is formulated to provide gentle and effective relief from dry, tickly coughs in infants and young children. Using glycerol as the active ingredient, it helps soothe throat irritation, reduce coughing frequency, and support easier breathing—especially during sleep or feeding.
2. Weltek-Cardio Tablets
Weltek-Cardio is formulated with a powerful blend of heart-focused vitamins, minerals, and herbal extracts designed to support cardiovascular health, regulate blood pressure, and improve circulation.
3. VitaHealth Cod Liver Oil
Vitahealth Cod Liver Oil is a premium liquid supplement made from high-quality cod liver oil, providing a natural source of Omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin A, and Vitamin D. It is designed to support immunity, bone health, heart function, and overall wellbeing.
4. HealthAid Vitamin E 400 IU
HealthAid Vitamin E is a high-quality dietary supplement designed to support overall health through the powerful antioxidant properties of natural Vitamin E. Each softgel capsule provides 400 international units (iu) of Vitamin E sourced from natural d-alpha tocopherol.
Note: These products help support comfort and overall health but do not replace prescribed blood pressure medication.
When Should You See a Doctor?
You should speak to a healthcare professional if:
- Your cough started after beginning blood pressure medication
- The cough is persistent or worsening
- It affects your sleep or daily activities
- You feel tempted to stop your medication
Early review helps prevent complications and improves comfort.
What You Can Do Next
If you suspect your cough is linked to your blood pressure medication:
- Talk to your healthcare provider — don’t stop the medication on your own.
- Ask about switching to an ARB if a persistent dry cough is bothersome.
- Use supportive products (like cough syrup and supplements) to ease symptoms while you work with your clinician.
- Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications and supplements you take.
Understanding the why behind this cough and the options available puts you in control of your health journey — and that’s the first step toward feeling better again.
FAQs
Q. Can all blood pressure medicines cause a cough?
No. The cough is mainly linked to ACE inhibitors. Most other blood pressure medications do not cause this side effect.
Q. How do I know if my cough is from blood pressure medicine or a cold?
An ACE inhibitor cough is usually dry, long-lasting, and not accompanied by fever, flu symptoms, or mucus.
Q. Will switching medication stop the cough?
In most cases, yes. Once the ACE inhibitor is replaced with an alternative like an ARB, the cough gradually disappears.
Q. Is it safe to take cough syrup with blood pressure medication?
Many cough syrups are safe, but always check with a pharmacist or doctor to avoid interactions.
Q. Can I prevent this cough from happening?
There’s no guaranteed way to prevent it, but if you’ve had an ACE inhibitor cough before, your doctor can prescribe alternatives from the start.