ACE Inhibitors

ACE Inhibitors – Full Introduction

ACE Inhibitors (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors) are a widely used class of blood pressure medicines. They help lower high blood pressure, protect the heart, and prevent kidney damage, especially in people with diabetes or heart disease.

What are ACE Inhibitors?

• Class: Antihypertensive drugs

• Full form: Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors

• Commonly prescribed for long-term treatment

How ACE Inhibitors work

ACE inhibitors block the enzyme responsible for producing angiotensin II, a substance that narrows blood vessels. By blocking this enzyme, ACE inhibitors:

• Relax and widen blood vessels

• Lower blood pressure

• Reduce strain on the heart

• Improve blood flow to kidneys

Common ACE Inhibitors

• Enalapril

• Lisinopril

• Ramipril

• Captopril

• Perindopril

• Benazepril

Uses of ACE Inhibitors

ACE inhibitors are used to treat:

• High blood pressure (hypertension)

• Heart failure

• Heart attack (post-MI protection)

• Diabetic kidney disease

• Chronic kidney disease

• Stroke prevention

Benefits

• Long-term blood pressure control

• Protect kidneys in diabetic patients

• Reduce risk of heart attack and stroke

• Improve survival in heart failure

Dosage

• Taken once or twice daily

• Dose depends on patient condition

• Should be taken regularly at the same time

⚠️ Always follow doctor’s instructions

Common side effects

• Dry, persistent cough

• Dizziness (especially after first dose)

• Fatigue

• Low blood pressure

Serious side effects (rare)

• Severe allergic reaction (angioedema)

• High potassium levels

• Kidney function changes

Warnings & precautions

• Avoid in pregnancy

• Use cautiously in:

  • Kidney disease

  • Dehydration

• Regular monitoring of:

  • Blood pressure

  • Kidney function

  • Potassium levels

ACE Inhibitors vs ARBs

• ACE inhibitors may cause cough

• ARBs are used if cough occurs

Conclusion

ACE inhibitors are effective, protective, and widely trusted medicines for managing blood pressure and heart health. Proper medical supervision ensures safe and long-term benefits.