Update on the use of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and calcium antagonists in postinfarction patients.
OBJECTIVE
To review the results of recent studies on the use of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and calcium antagonists in patients after an acute myocardial infarction.


METHODS
Literature review.


CONCLUSIONS
ACE inhibition reduces mortality and morbidity and improves quality of life in a cost-effective way, demonstrating increased benefits with increasing risks. Calcium antagonism with verapamil and possibly diltiazem reduces mortality and morbidity, except in patients with congestive heart failure without signs of reversible myocardial ischaemia. Nifedipine may have negative effects. The efficacy of the second-generation dihydropyridines remains to be demonstrated.
Persson
S
S
Department of Cardiology, Malmo University Hospital, Sweden.
D000806:Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002121:Calcium Channel Blockers / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D009203:Myocardial Infarction / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000401:mortality; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D012307:Risk Factors; D015996:Survival Rate; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000806:Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors; D002121:Calcium Channel Blockers