Blog Details

ACE inhibitors (ACEI)

ACE Inhibitors (ACEI): Understanding Their Mechanism and Clinical Use

ACE Inhibitors (ACEI) are a class of medications primarily used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. They work by inhibiting the activity of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), a key component of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS).

Mechanism of Action

1. Inhibition of Angiotensin II Formation:
   ACE inhibitors block the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor. This action reduces blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels and decreasing peripheral resistance12.
2. Increased Bradykinin Levels:
   ACE also breaks down bradykinin, a vasodilator. By inhibiting ACE, these drugs increase bradykinin levels, which further contributes to vasodilation and blood pressure reduction12.
3. Reduction of Aldosterone Secretion:
   Lower levels of angiotensin II result in decreased aldosterone secretion, leading to reduced sodium and water retention, which helps lower blood volume and pressure5.

Clinical Use

1. Hypertension:
   ACE inhibitors are effective in managing high blood pressure by reducing vascular resistance and promoting diuresis24.
2. Heart Failure:
   They improve cardiac function by reducing afterload and promoting beneficial cardiac remodeling4.
3. Post-Myocardial Infarction:
   ACE inhibitors are used to reduce morbidity and mortality after heart attacks by improving cardiac function and reducing remodeling4.

Conclusion

ACE inhibitors are crucial in managing cardiovascular diseases by inhibiting the RAAS pathway, thereby reducing blood pressure and improving cardiac function.

Consult with Our Team of Experts Now!
At DrStemCellsThailand‘s Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine Center of Thailand, we emphasize comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans of Cellular Therapy and Stem Cells for managing cardiovascular health. If you have questions about ACE inhibitors or would like more information on our services related to cardiovascular care, consult with our experts today!’

Consult with Our Team of Experts Now!

References

1. CV Pharmacology: ACE Inhibitors
   Discusses the mechanism of action of ACE inhibitors, including vasodilation and increased bradykinin levels.
2. Wikipedia: ACE Inhibitor
   Highlights the role of ACE inhibitors in reducing angiotensin II levels and increasing bradykinin.
3. Circulation: Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors
   Reviews the pharmacology and clinical use of ACE inhibitors.
4. YouTube: How ACE Inhibitors Work
   Explains the mechanism of action and clinical applications of ACE inhibitors.
5. StatPearls: ACE Inhibitors
   Discusses the blockade of aldosterone secretion by ACE inhibitors.
6. StatPearls: Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors
   Provides insights into the chemical structure and pharmacokinetics of ACE inhibitors.
7. BIHS: Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors
   Highlights the competitive inhibition of ACE by these drugs.
8. GoodRx: ACE Inhibitors
   Summarizes the mechanism of action of ACE inhibitors in lowering blood pressure.