Which of the following is a potential adverse effect of ACE inhibitors?

The correct answer, which identifies a potential adverse effect of ACE inhibitors, is dry cough. This side effect arises due to the accumulation of bradykinin, a peptide that is normally broken down by the enzyme that ACE inhibitors inhibit. When ACE is blocked, bradykinin levels can increase, which is thought to be responsible for triggering a cough reflex in some patients. This persistent cough is often noted as a significant reason for discontinuing ACE inhibitor therapy.

Other options like muscle weakness, nausea, and weight gain are not common or well-documented adverse effects associated with ACE inhibitors. Muscle weakness could be linked to other conditions or medications, but it is not a typical side effect of ACE inhibitors. Nausea can occur with various medications but is also not specifically tied to ACE inhibitor use. Weight gain may occur for different reasons but does not directly relate to the pharmacological effect of ACE inhibitors. Therefore, the association of a dry cough with ACE inhibitors is well-established in clinical practice, making it the most relevant choice.