beta-blockers, angiotensin II, and ACE inhibitors in patients with heart failure

Blood concentrations of angiotensin II are often raised in patients with heart failure, despite treatment with angiotensin-converting-enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. We compared concentrations of angiotensin II in two groups of matched patients, receiving ACE inhibitor therapy with or without concomitant administration of beta-blockers. Concentrations of angiotensin II were lower in individuals taking beta-blockers than in those who were not (geometric mean 1.1 [95% CI 0.4-2.7] vs 15.5 [4.6-52.6] fmol/mL, 95% CI for difference 3-59). Our findings indicate that a reduction in angiotensin II concentrations might contribute to the therapeutic benefits of beta-blockade in heart failure, especially in patients who simultaneously receive ACE inhibitor treatment.