A drug may be classified by the chemical type of the active ingredient or by the way it is used to treat a particular condition. Each drug can be classified into one or more drug classes.
Angiotensin II is an extremely potent vasoconstrictor. It also increases release of noradrenaline, reinforcing vasoconstriction and increases the heart rate and force of contraction. It increases re-absorption of sodium ions by the kidneys and stimulates
secretion of aldosterone from the adrenal cortex. Aldosterone further increases sodium re-absorption and water retention by the kidneys.
Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors block the angiotensin converting enzyme and inhibit the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II.
Decrease in levels of angiotensin II leads to decreased vasoconstriction and consequently leads to reduced blood pressure.
Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors are used to treat hypertension.
See also
Medical conditions associated with angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors:
- Coronary Artery Disease
- Cystinuria
- Diabetic Kidney Disease
- Heart Attack
- Heart Failure
- High Blood Pressure
- Hypertensive Emergency
- Left Ventricular Dysfunction
- Migraine Prevention
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