ACE INHIBITORS

Ace inhibitors are usually prescribed within 24 hours of someone having a heart attack.  ACE Inhibitors work by working on the rennin-angiotensin system.  This system is a self-regulating feedback loop that begins in the kidney with the production of rennin in a response to a drop in blood pressure.  Rennin is converted into angiotensin.  Angiotensin is converted into angiotensin II through the action of angiotensin converting enzymes.  Angiotensin II is a potent vasoconstrictor and also causes retension of water and sodium.  A drug that helps to block the actions of Angiotensin II is necessary to help open up and relax the arteries.

ACE Inhibitors work by inhibiting the action of the angiotensin converting enzymes, thus preventing the conversion of angiotensin to angiotensin II.

Examples of ACE Inhibitors include:  captopril, enalapril, fosinopril, lisinopril, and moexipril.  This is not a complete list of all ACE Inhibitors.  The names of ACE Inhibitors generally in the letters “pril”.

ACE Inhibitors treat various conditions including, hypertension, heart failure, heart attacks, and coronary artery disease.  Recent research has shown that, when used in combination with other proven therapies, such as anticoagulants, beta blockers and statins, ACE Inhibitors may increase survival rates for patients after a heart attack.

People taking ACE Inhibitors should drink sufficient liquid during exercise or while outside in hot weather.  Also people taking ACE Inhibitors should consult their physician before taking NSAIDS.  Generally it is suggested that people taking ACE Inhibitors should not take NSAIDS.

The most common side effect of ACE Inhibitors is coughing.  In some cases this coughing can be severe that the physician will stop using the drug and find another medication to use such as an ARB.  Patients on ACE Inhibitors should get regular blood tests done to check for kidney function and potassium levels as high potassium levels is one other side effect of these drugs.  Other side effects include allergic reaction, tachycardia, edema in the face, mouth, hands, or feet, headache, drowsiness, weakness or fatigue, loss of taste, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps or distention, joint pain, and chest pain  Teaching side effects to medications is an important part of the nurse’s role in the coronary care unit.

*Information found on this page was found in part on the web site iVillage Total Health