Examples
|
| Lotensin | benazepril |
| Capoten | captopril |
| Vasotec | enalapril |
| Monopril | fosinopril |
| Prinivil, Zestril | lisinopril |
| Aceon | perindopril |
| Accupril | quinapril |
| Altace | ramipril |
| Mavik | trandolapril |
How It Works
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)
inhibitors block an enzyme needed to form a substance that narrows blood
vessels. As a result, blood vessels relax and widen, making it easier for blood
to flow through the vessels, which reduces blood pressure. These medicines also
increase the release of water and sodium to the urine, which also lowers blood
pressure.
ACE inhibitors can be used alone or in combination with
a diuretic or other medicines.
Why It Is Used
These medicines are used alone for
or they are used with other
medicines such as a diuretic.
- ACE inhibitors are a good choice for people who have had a
, because the medicine helps reduce the workload on the heart.
- ACE inhibitors are a good choice for people who have
, because this medicine does not affect blood sugar
levels and may help protect the kidneys. If you have diabetes, you may take these medicines if you do not have high blood pressure but have small amounts of protein in your urine (microalbuminuria), an early sign of kidney damage.
- ACE inhibitors may be a
good choice for people who have
or disorders of the electrical system of the
heart that would be made worse by other blood pressure medicines such as
.
- ACE inhibitors may also help to prevent stroke.
How Well It Works
ACE inhibitors can reduce blood
pressure in people who have high blood pressure.
They also help people
who have heart failure to live longer. And they may slow or prevent kidney problems in people who have
.
Side Effects
All medicines have side effects. But many people don't feel the side effects, or they are able to deal with them. Ask your pharmacist about the side effects of each medicine you take. Side effects are also listed in the information that comes with your medicine.
Here are some important things to think about:
- Usually the benefits of the medicine are more important than any minor side effects.
- Side effects may go away after you take the medicine for a while.
- If side effects still bother you and you wonder if you should keep taking the medicine, call your doctor. He or she may be able to lower your dose or change your medicine. Do not suddenly quit taking your medicine unless your doctor tells you to.