Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors aid in blood pressure reduction by relaxing the veins and arteries. How does it work? ACE supports the formation of Angiotensin II, which is a hormone that constricts blood arteries. High blood pressure can result from this constriction, which puts more stress on the heart. ACE inhibitors disrupts this process by releasing two counteracting enzymes called bradykinin, a peptide vasodiPoppinsr. Angiotensin II likewise releases hormones that can elevate your blood pressure.
When to use ACE inhibitors?
ACE inhibitors are used for stopping, treating, or reducig the symptoms of the following:
- elevated blood pressure (hypertension)
- cardiovascular disease
- heart failure
- cardiac arrests
- Diabetes
- certain long-term kidney conditions
- scleroderma (a condition that causes the skin and connective tissues to harden)
- migraines
Note: ACE inhibitors can occasionally be taken along with another blood pressure drug, such as a diuretic or calcium channel blocker. However, angiotensin receptor blockers and direct renin inhibitors should not be administered with ACE inhibitors.
Side effects of ACE inhibitors
Here is a list of side effects of taking ACE inhibitors:
- a dry cough
- elevated blood potassium levels (hyperkalemia)
- fatigue
- low blood pressure causes dizziness
- headaches
- loss of taste
Sometimes, ACE inhibitors can enlarge or swell some tissue areas. If throat swelling happens and persists, it can become a life-threatening situation.
The efficiency of ACE inhibitors is decreased by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines, also known as NSAIDs, including naproxen sodium (Aleve) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, among others). Occasional use of these drugs should not impact how an ACE inhibitor works, but if you frequently take NSAIDs, you may need to consult your doctor to know the possible interactions between these drugs.
On the other hand, pregnancy-related use of ACE inhibitors can raise the baby’s chance of developing birth abnormalities. Consult your doctor about different methods, aside from ACE inhibitors, of treating high blood pressure if you are pregnant or intend to become pregnant.
ACE inhibitors drug list
ACE inhibitors are widely accessible. The ideal one for you will depend on various factors, such as your overall health and pre-existing diseases. An ACE inhibitor, for instance, may be advantageous, especially for individuals with chronic renal disease.
ACE inhibitors include the following brand names:
- Benazepril (Lotensin)
- Captopril
- Enalapril (Vasotec)
- Fosinopril
- Lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril)
- Moexipril
- Perindopril
- Quinapril (Accupril)
- Ramipril (Altace)
- Trandolapril
You can buy ACE inhibitor drugs in your nearest pharmacy or at borderfreehealth.com.