Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors for Coronary Artery Disease
Examples
|
| benazepril | Lotensin |
| captopril | Capoten |
| enalapril | Vasotec |
| fosinopril | Monopril |
| lisinopril | Prinivil, Zestoretic, Zestril |
| perindopril | Aceon |
| quinapril | Accupril |
| ramipril | Altace |
| trandolapril | Mavik |
How It Works
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)
inhibitors interfere with the formation of a hormone (angiotensin II) that can
narrow (constrict) blood vessels. ACE inhibitors help lower blood pressure and
reduce the workload on the heart, which lowers the chances of
heart attack.
Why It Is Used
ACE inhibitors are recommended for
people who have coronary artery disease, particularly those who also have
diabetes. They may lower your risk for a future heart attack or heart failure. These drugs frequently are also used to
treat
high blood pressure and
heart failure.
How Well It Works
ACE inhibitors help lower blood pressure and
reduce the workload on the heart, which lowers the chances of
a heart attack. They also help people who have heart failure to live longer. And they slow the development of kidney failure in people who have diabetes.
Side Effects
Side effects may include:
- Cough. A cough is one of the most common side
effects of ACE inhibitors. Most people find the cough to be a minor problem
that they can tolerate in exchange for the benefits of this medicine. If
coughing is a severe problem, other medicines can be tried.
- Low blood pressure. Another side effect of ACE
inhibitors may be low blood pressure, which may cause symptoms of dizziness,
weakness, or fainting. People with low to normal blood pressure generally will
be started on a low dose of medicine and need to have their blood pressure
monitored regularly.
- Swelling. Swelling in the face, neck, lips, throat,
hands, feet, or genitals rarely may occur when using ACE inhibitors. If
swelling affects the face or throat, it can interfere with breathing. If this
occurs, notify your doctor immediately.
- High potassium levels. A high potassium level can
disrupt the normal electrical impulses in the heart, leading to irregular
heartbeats (arrhythmias). Potassium levels are monitored with blood
tests.
See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects.
(Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)
What To Think About
If you are pregnant or may
become pregnant, do not take ACE inhibitors.
Usually ACE
inhibitors cause very few side effects. The most common side effect is an
irritating dry cough. Most people find the cough to be a minor problem that
they can live with in exchange for the benefits of this medicine. If you take
an ACE inhibitor and have a problem with coughing, then you might take an
angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) instead. ARBs are less likely to cause a
cough.
ACE inhibitors may interact with other medicines
such as
pain relievers called NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs),
antacids, potassium supplements, certain diuretics, and lithium. If you are
taking one of these medicines, talk with your doctor before taking an ACE inhibitor.
Complete the new medication information form (PDF)(What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.
Credits
| By | Healthwise Staff |
|---|
| Primary Medical Reviewer | E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine |
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| Specialist Medical Reviewer | John A. McPherson, MD, FACC, FSCAI - Cardiology |
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| Last Revised | May 10, 2010 |
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Last Revised:
May 10, 2010
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