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ACE-Inhibitors
The kidneys produce the enzyme renin, which releases the hormone angiotensin I. Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II, which constricts blood vessels and causes the kidneys to retain more fluid. The main function of angiotensin II is to increase the blood pressure. ACE inhibitors block the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, thereby reducing constriction and helping to reduce blood pressure.
Additionally, after a heart attack, the heart muscle tends to overcompensate for the damage that was caused by the infarction. This overcompensation can lead to an increase in heart muscle thickness and size which can then make the heart function less efficiently, eventually leading to heart failure (inability of the heart to effectively pump blood). ACE inhibitors help to minimize this overcompensation and help prevent progression to heart failure.
Drugs in the class
Benazepril
(
Lotensin
)
Captopril
(
Capoten
)
Enalapril Tablets
(
Enalapril Maleate Tablets,
Vasotec Tablets
)
Fosinopril Tablets
(
Fosinopril Sodium Tablets,
Monopril Tablets
)
Lisinopril Tablets
(
Prinivil Tablets,
Zestril Tablets
)
Moexipril Tablets
(
Moexipril Hydrochloride Tablets,
Univasc Tablets
)
Perindopril Tablets
(
Aceon Tablets,
Perindopril Erbumine Tablets
)
Quinapril
(
Accupril
)
Ramipril Capsules
(
Altace Capsules
)
Trandolapril
(
Mavik
)
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