Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and the cardiovascular system.
OBJECTIVE: To show that angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors benefit the cardiovascular system to a greater extent than other antihypertensive agents. DATA EXTRACTION: An extensive literature search has shown that ACE inhibitors can induce regression of left ventricular hypertrophy, which may improve systolic and/or diastolic function in the left ventricle; increase in arterial compliance; and improve clinical signs of congestive heart failure and reduce mortality in patients with severe heart failure. In addition, ACE inhibitors have either a neutral or a beneficial effect on blood lipids and lipoproteins. These agents also have potential anti-ischaemic and anti-arrhythmic activity but do not depress resting cardiac function. CONCLUSION: ACE inhibitors are uniquely valuable first-line antihypertensive agents, especially in patients with cardiovascular risk.
Duke Scholars
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Related Subject Headings
- Vascular Resistance
- Lipoproteins
- Lipids
- Hypertension
- Humans
- Heart Failure
- Coronary Disease
- Cardiovascular System & Hematology
- Cardiovascular System
- Cardiomegaly
Citation
Published In
ISSN
Publication Date
Volume
Issue
Start / End Page
Location
Related Subject Headings
- Vascular Resistance
- Lipoproteins
- Lipids
- Hypertension
- Humans
- Heart Failure
- Coronary Disease
- Cardiovascular System & Hematology
- Cardiovascular System
- Cardiomegaly