﻿ High Blood Pressure Medication: Drug Facts, Side Effects and Dosing

Blood Pressure Medication

Pharmacy Author:
Medical Editor:

Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors

ACE inhibitors are medications that inhibit the activity of the enzyme angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), which is important for controlling blood pressure.

Angiotensin II is a very potent chemical formed in the blood by ACE frp, angiotensin I. When formed, angiotensin II causes the muscles surrounding blood vessels to contract, thus narrowing the vessels and increasing blood pressure. ACE inhibitors are medications that inhibit the activity of ACE which decreases the production of angiotensin II. As a result, ACE inhibitors cause the blood vessels to enlarge or dilate, and this reduces blood pressure. This lower blood pressure makes it easier for the heart to pump blood and can improve the function of a failing heart. In addition, the progression of kidney disease due to high blood pressure or diabetes is slowed.

Medically Reviewed by a Doctor on 4/21/2015

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration


Pill Finder Tool

Need help identifying pills and medications?
Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.

Back to Medications Index