🧬 These Medications Are Now Known to Cause Angioedema

Angioedema is a potentially serious condition that causes sudden swelling beneath the skin, most commonly around the face, lips, throat, and tongue.

In some cases, it may look like an allergic reaction — in others, it can come out of nowhere and become life-threatening within minutes.

⚠️ Medications Linked to Angioedema

💊 ACE Inhibitors (Very Common Trigger)

Used to treat high blood pressure and heart disease.

Examples:

Lisinopril

Enalapril

Ramipril

▶️ May cause delayed-onset angioedema — even years after starting the medication.

▶️ Symptoms may include swelling of lips, face, or throat without rash or itching.

▶️ Not responsive to antihistamines or steroids. Requires immediate drug discontinuation and airway management if needed.

💊 ARBs (Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers)

Alternative to ACE inhibitors, but may still cause angioedema in some individuals.

Examples:

Losartan

Valsartan

Olmesartan

⚠️ Risk is lower than ACE inhibitors, but still present, especially in those who’ve had reactions before.

💊 NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs)

Can trigger both allergic and non-allergic angioedema, especially in sensitive individuals.

Examples:

Ibuprofen

Naproxen

Aspirin

▶️ Often affects face and lips

▶️ Reaction may occur within hours of use

💊 Antibiotics (Especially Penicillins and Sulfa Drugs)

May cause histamine-mediated allergic reactions, leading to angioedema with hives.

Examples:

Amoxicillin

Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim (Bactrim)

Cephalexin

⚠️ Immediate medical attention is required for throat or tongue swelling.

💊 Estrogen-containing medications

May worsen angioedema in people with hereditary angioedema (HAE) or predisposition to swelling.

Examples:

Oral contraceptives

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)

✅ What To Do If You're at Risk

✔️ Review your medication list with a healthcare provider

✔️ Report any swelling episodes right away — even if mild

✔️ If you've had angioedema before, avoid known triggers

✔️ Ask about alternatives to ACE inhibitors or NSAIDs

✔️ Wear a medical alert bracelet if you’ve had serious reactions in the past