Pharmacology and the Nursing Process by Linda Lane Lilley: Practice Exam

What spurred the development of ACE inhibitors?

1. A study on blood pressure regulation

2. A need for better hypertension medication

3. The discovery of a South American viper's venom

4. Research on renal function

The correct answer is: The discovery of a South American viper's venom

ACE inhibitors were initially developed in response to the discovery of a South American viper's venom. Researchers found that the venom contained a substance that inhibited the action of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), which is involved in the regulation of blood pressure. Option A is incorrect because the study on blood pressure regulation helped uncover the role of ACE in hypertension, but it did not directly spur the development of ACE inhibitors. Option B is incorrect because while there was a need for better hypertension medication, the specific discovery of ACE inhibitors was spurred by the viper venom. Option D is incorrect because while renal function is affected by ACE inhibitors, it was not the main impetus for their development.