Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and the cardiovascular system

To show that angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors benefit the cardiovascular system to a greater extent than other antihypertensive agents.

An extensive literature search has shown that ACE inhibitors can induce regression of left ventricular hypertrophy, which may improve systolic and/or diastolic function in the left ventricle; increase in arterial compliance; and improve clinical signs of congestive heart failure and reduce mortality in patients with severe heart failure. In addition, ACE inhibitors have either a neutral or a beneficial effect on blood lipids and lipoproteins. These agents also have potential anti-ischaemic and anti-arrhythmic activity but do not depress resting cardiac function.

ACE inhibitors are uniquely valuable first-line antihypertensive agents, especially in patients with cardiovascular risk.