Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitorsAngiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors help relax blood vessels. ACE inhibitors prevent an enzyme in your body from producing angiotensin II, a substance in your body that affects your cardiovascular system by narrowing your blood vessels and releasing hormones that can raise your blood pressure. This narrowing can cause high blood pressure and force your heart to work harder. Examples of ACE inhibitorsMany ACE inhibitors are available. Which one is best for you depends on your health and the condition being treated. Examples of ACE inhibitors include:
Uses for ACE inhibitorsDoctors prescribe ACE inhibitors to prevent, treat or improve symptoms in conditions such as:
Your doctor may prescribe other medications in addition to an ACE inhibitor, such as a diuretic or calcium channel blocker, as part of your high blood pressure treatment. ACE inhibitors are usually taken once daily, and many people take them in the morning. Side effects and cautionsDoctors commonly prescribe ACE inhibitors because they don't often cause side effects. Possible ACE inhibitor side effects include:
In rare cases — but more commonly in blacks and in smokers — ACE inhibitors can cause some areas of your tissues to swell (angioedema). If it occurs in the throat, that swelling can be life-threatening. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others) and naproxen (Aleve, others) decrease the effectiveness of ACE inhibitors. While taking an occasional dose of these medications shouldn't change the effectiveness of your ACE inhibitor, talk to your doctor if you regularly take NSAIDs. Because ACE inhibitors can cause birth defects, don't take them if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. RelatedLast Updated: 2010-12-16 © 1998-2013 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). All rights reserved. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.com," "Mayo Clinic Health Information," "Reliable information for a healthier life" and the triple-shield Mayo logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.
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