ACE Inhibitors Mechanism and Side Effects

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38.3 هزار بار بازدید - 5 سال پیش - ACE inhibitors, short for Angiotensin-Converting
ACE inhibitors, short for Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme inhibitors, are a class of medications commonly used to treat various cardiovascular conditions, particularly high blood pressure (hypertension) and heart failure. They work by inhibiting the action of the enzyme angiotensin-converting enzyme, which plays a crucial role in the body's regulation of blood pressure and fluid balance.

Here are some key points about ACE inhibitors:

1. Mechanism of Action: ACE inhibitors block the conversion of angiotensin I into angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor. Angiotensin II causes blood vessels to narrow, increasing blood pressure and straining the heart. By inhibiting its formation, ACE inhibitors help relax blood vessels, reduce blood pressure, and improve heart function.

2. Indications: ACE inhibitors are prescribed for various conditions, including hypertension, heart failure, diabetic nephropathy (kidney disease), and prevention of heart attack in certain individuals at high risk.

3. Examples of ACE Inhibitors: Some commonly prescribed ACE inhibitors include enalapril, lisinopril, ramipril, captopril, and quinapril.

4. Benefits:
  - Lowering Blood Pressure: ACE inhibitors are effective in lowering blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular events.
  - Heart Failure Management: These medications help manage heart failure by reducing the workload on the heart, improving symptoms, and increasing survival rates.
  - Renal Protection: ACE inhibitors can protect the kidneys in patients with diabetes by lowering blood pressure and decreasing stress on the kidneys.

5. Side Effects: Common side effects may include a dry cough, dizziness, fatigue, and elevated blood potassium levels. A more severe side effect is angioedema, a rare but serious allergic reaction causing swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

6. Precautions:
  - Pregnancy: ACE inhibitors are not recommended during pregnancy due to potential harm to the developing fetus.
  - Kidney Function: These medications can affect kidney function, so regular monitoring is important.
  - Allergies: Patients with a history of angioedema should avoid ACE inhibitors.

7. Interactions: ACE inhibitors may interact with certain medications, such as potassium supplements or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), potentially leading to kidney problems or elevated potassium levels.

8. Dosage: The dosage of ACE inhibitors varies depending on the specific medication and the patient's medical condition. It is important to follow the prescribed dosage and any instructions from a healthcare provider.

9. Combination Therapy: ACE inhibitors are often used in combination with other medications like diuretics, beta-blockers, or calcium channel blockers to achieve better blood pressure control or manage heart failure.

As with any medication, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional before starting or discontinuing ACE inhibitors, as they can have varying effects on different individuals depending on their medical history and current health status.
5 سال پیش در تاریخ 1398/02/29 منتشر شده است.
38,340 بـار بازدید شده
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