Answers from
The Pharmacists
America Trusts^SM

Answer:An ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) inhibitor is a type of prescription antihypertensive medication—that means it is used to treat high blood pressure. Medications in this category also are given to patients being treated for congestive heart failure, kidney problems, and certain other conditions.

Angiotensin II is a neurohormone (a chemical “messenger” in the body) that makes blood vessels tighten up, which causes high blood pressure. It also “tells” the body to release aldosterone, which causes the kidneys to retain fluid and sodium (a condition called edema).

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)—a naturally occurring enzyme in the body—changes angiotensin I into angiotensin II. When ACE is blocked with an ACE inhibitor, blood vessels relax, which lowers blood pressure. Lowered blood pressure increases the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart.

Angiotensin II also “tells” the body to release vasopressin—a substance that causes the body to retain fluid. For people with congestive heart failure (in which fluid retention can be life threatening), ACE inhibitors help avoid fluid retention.

Examples of ACE inhibitors include Lotensin® (benazepril), Altace® (ramipril), Vasotec® (enalapril), and Zestril® (lisinopril).

If you take any of these medications, it is important that you see your doctor periodically so that he or she can check your progress. You also should make sure your doctor knows about any other medications you take—prescription or over the counter (including supplements).

Get more information about your medication.

Read an in-depth report about high blood pressure in Walgreens.com Health Library.

Learn more about congestive heart failure in Walgreens.com Health Library.

View the Walgreens.com Ask a Pharmacist Archives for a list of all commonly asked questions.

DISCLAIMER: The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. Consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment of your medical condition. Advances in medicine may cause this information to become outdated, invalid or subject to debate. Professional opinions and interpretations of the scientific literature may vary. Walgreens' terms of use and general warranty disclaimer apply to all services provided. If you are in need of immediate medical attention, contact your physician, poison control center or emergency medical professional. If you need to speak with a pharmacist for non-emergency matters, contact your local Walgreens pharmacist or call a Walgreens.com pharmacist toll-free at 1-877-250-5823.