Changes in arterial distensibility produced by converting enzyme inhibitors in hypertensive humans

Converting enzyme inhibitors enhance arterial compliance in hypertensive humans. The enhancement is due not only to an increase in arterial diameter and volume but also to an increase in arterial distensibility. The latter effect reflects the drug action on arterial smooth muscle tone rather than the lower stretch due to the blood pressure reduction. The improvement in the buffering function of large arteries in hypertensives may contribute to produce a more important decrease in systolic pressure and a better reversion of cardiac hypertrophy.