Angiotensin Medications: What You Need to Know
Introduction Angiotensin medications, also known as Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), are a class of drugs commonly prescribed to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) and various cardiovascular conditions. These medications work by targeting the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, a hormone system that regulates blood pressure and fluid balance in the body. By interfering with this system, Angiotensin Medications can help relax blood vessels, lower blood pressure, and improve overall heart function. They are frequently used in combination with other antihypertensive drugs or alone, depending on the patient’s specific medical condition and response to treatment. The two main types of Angiotensin Medications, ACE inhibitors, and ARBs, have slight differences in their mechanisms of action. ACE inhibitors block the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor, while ARBs prevent angiotensin II from binding to its receptors. These differences influence their effectiveness and potential side effects. In the
