ACE inhibitors in congestive heart failure.
Despite improved understanding of both disease mechanisms and the quality of care, congestive heart failure (CHF) remains a serious clinical problem. The traditional treatments, diuretics and digitalis, continue to play a major role in the management of many patients with CHF; however, in the last decade, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors have been added as an important treatment option. These agents counteract the overstimulation effects of diuretics on the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. In addition, some studies indicate that ACE inhibitors may improve symptoms and survival. Recent evidence suggests that in patients with mild to moderate CHF, ACE inhibitor and a diuretic should be administered with or without digitalis to achieve the maximum clinical benefit.
Kantner
T R
TR
Department of Family Medicine, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock.
D000806:Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000959:Antihypertensive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004232:Diuretics / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D006333:Heart Failure / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans
D000806:Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors; D000959:Antihypertensive Agents; D004232:Diuretics