Final answer:
ACE inhibitors and ARBs are contraindicated in disease processes such as angioedema, bilateral renal artery stenosis, pregnancy, and hyperkalemia, as they may worsen conditions or pose risks to patients.
Step-by-step explanation:
Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors or ACEIs) and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) are classes of medications commonly used to treat conditions like high blood pressure and heart failure. However, there are specific disease processes where the use of ACE inhibitors or ARBs is contraindicated. One of the primary contraindications for these medications is known conditions such as angioedema, which is a swelling beneath the skin that can occur as a side effect of ACE inhibitors. ACE/ARB therapy is also contraindicated in patients with bilateral renal artery stenosis, which could lead to renal failure with these medications. Furthermore, these medications should not be used during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters, as they can cause injury and death to the developing fetus. Finally, for patients with hyperkalemia, or high potassium levels, the use of ACE inhibitors or ARBs should be avoided as they can further increase potassium levels, leading to potentially dangerous heart rhythms.