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Which class of medications is indicated by the suffix '-pril'?
Calcium channel blockers
ACE inhibitors
Beta blockers
Local anesthetics
The correct answer is: ACE inhibitors
Medications that have the suffix '-pril' are classified as ACE inhibitors, or Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme inhibitors. These medications are primarily used to manage hypertension and congestive heart failure. They work by inhibiting the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a hormone that narrows blood vessels and increases blood pressure. By blocking this conversion, ACE inhibitors help relax blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more freely, which can lead to a decrease in blood pressure and reduced workload on the heart. This class of medications includes examples like lisinopril, enalapril, and ramipril. The recognition of the '-pril' suffix is a useful way for healthcare professionals to identify these drugs quickly and understand their therapeutic use during patient assessments and treatment planning.