My mother is experiencing a severe dry cough after taking Ramipres 5mg following her recent angioplasty; what should we do, or is there an alternative medicine she can take?

A persistent dry cough is a well-known side effect of Ramipres (an ACE inhibitor). It is caused by a buildup of a compound called bradykinin in the lungs. Please do not stop this medication abruptly, as it is vital for her heart recovery post-angioplasty. Instead, consult her cardiologist promptly. They will likely substitute Ramipres with an alternative class of medication, such as an Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker (ARB) like Telmisartan or Losartan. ARBs provide the same protective cardiovascular benefits but do not cause this dry cough.