ACE inhibitors in congestive heart failure

Despite improved understanding of both disease mechanisms and the quality of care, congestive heart failure (CHF) remains a serious clinical problem. The traditional treatments, diuretics and digitalis, continue to play a major role in the management of many patients with CHF; however, in the last d...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inThe Journal of family practice Vol. 35; no. 3; p. 305
Main Author Kantner, T R
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published United States 01.09.1992
Subjects
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors - therapeutic use
Antihypertensive Agents - therapeutic use
Diuretics - therapeutic use
Drug Therapy, Combination
Heart Failure - drug therapy
Heart Failure - physiopathology
Humans
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Summary:Despite improved understanding of both disease mechanisms and the quality of care, congestive heart failure (CHF) remains a serious clinical problem. The traditional treatments, diuretics and digitalis, continue to play a major role in the management of many patients with CHF; however, in the last decade, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors have been added as an important treatment option. These agents counteract the overstimulation effects of diuretics on the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. In addition, some studies indicate that ACE inhibitors may improve symptoms and survival. Recent evidence suggests that in patients with mild to moderate CHF, ACE inhibitor and a diuretic should be administered with or without digitalis to achieve the maximum clinical benefit.
ISSN:0094-3509