Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors heart failure management

Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors are indicated for use in hypertension and heart failure. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors have no use in the management of arrhythmias. 

Captopril, an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACE), is indicated in the management of hypertension by itself or in combination with other antihypertensive medications, in heart failure when the patients have not responded adequately to digitalis, after myocardial infarction associated with left ventricular dysfunction, and in diabetic nephropathy (Figure 25). 

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors are used in the management of hypertension and congestive heart failure. 

Flosequinan is a vasodilator. Vasodilators in combination with an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor have been used in congestive heart failure. The vasodilators may be classified as venodilators, arterial dilators, or balanced-type vasodilators (Table 26). The rationale for vasodilation in the management of CHF is based on the increased arteriolar vasotone that occurs. This initiates a vicious circle in which cardiac function is further depressed by an increase in afterload and in resistance to ejection. 

Amrinone has been approved for use in the United States for the short-term management of congestive heart failure. The major use of digitoxin is in the treatment of chronic mild heart failure, frequently in combination with an angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. This combination also is effective in the treatment of the acute condition. Nitroglycerin is representative of the nitrates used for the treatment of angina pectoris. 

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