Sunday, May 22, 2011

Drug Classes: Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors

Used to treat: Hypertension, congestive heart failure (CHF)*, to prevent CHF after heart attack#

Mechanism of Action: Prevents conversion of angiotensin I to its active form, angiotensin II by interfering with renin

Contraindications: Pregnancy, breast feeding, should be taken 1 hour before meals



Pregnancy Category:

  • C (First trimester) - Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.
  • D (Second and Third trimester) - There is positive evidence of human fetal risk based on adverse reaction data from investigational or marketing experience or studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.


Common Medications (Brand -- Generic)

  • Lotensin - Benazepril
    • Tablets: 5mg, 10mg, 20mg, 40mg
  • Vasotec - Enalapril*
    • Tablets: 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, 20mg
  • Monopril - Fosinopril*
    • Tablets: 10mg, 20mg, 40mg
  • Prinivil/Zestril - Lisinopril*#
    • Tablets: 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg, 20mg, 30mg, 40mg
  • Accupril - Quinapril*
    • Tablets: 5mg, 10mg, 20mg, 40mg
  • Altase - Ramipril*#
    • Capsules: 1.25mg, 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg
    Common Side Effects
    • Cough
    • Hypotension
    • Taste disturbances

    Rare, but Potentially Deadly Side Effects
    • Agranulocytosis
    • Angioedema

    Combination Drugs Containing ACE Inhibitors:
    Miscellaneous
    • Almost always end in -pril
    C. Samuels

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