Angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitor | |
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Drug class | |
Captopril, the first synthetic ACE inhibitor
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Class identifiers | |
Use | Hypertension |
ATC code | C09A |
Biological target | Angiotensin-converting enzyme |
Clinical data | |
Drugs.com | Drug Classes |
Consumer Reports | Best Buy Drugs |
WebMD | MedicineNet RxList |
External links | |
MeSH | D000806 |
An angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitor (ACE inhibitor) is a pharmaceutical drug used primarily for the treatment of hypertension (elevated blood pressure) and congestive heart failure.
This group of drugs causes relaxation of blood vessels as well as a decrease in blood volume, which leads to lower blood pressure and decreased oxygen demand from the heart. They inhibit the angiotensin-converting enzyme, an important component of the renin–angiotensin system.
Frequently prescribed ACE inhibitors include benazepril, zofenopril, perindopril, trandolapril, captopril, enalapril, lisinopril, and ramipril.
ACE inhibitors were initially approved for the treatment of hypertension and can be used alone or in combination with other antihypertensive medications. Later, they were found useful for other cardiovascular and kidney diseases including:
In treating heart disease, ACE inhibitors are usually used with other medications. A typical treatment plan often includes an ACE inhibitor, a beta blocker, a long-acting nitrate, and a calcium channel blocker, in combinations that are adjusted to the individual patient's needs. There are fixed-dose combination drugs, such as ACE inhibitor and thiazide combinations.