What’s the difference?
💊Angiotensin converting enzymes (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) are antihypertensive medications used to treat high blood pressure and other comorbid conditions.
💊While the enzyme inhibitors work by reducing the level of angiotensin II in the body, the receptor blockers inhibit the function of angiotensin II by directly blocking the specific receptor.
⭐️Key Takeaways⭐️
-ACE inhibitors and ARBs have similar benefits, and both work equally well in the body though ARBs are thought to have less side effects.
-ACE inhibitors and ARBs are both considered first line for the treatment of hypertension.
-ACE inhibitors remain first line for HFrEF with ARBs as an alternative.
-For those who cannot tolerate an ACE inhibitor, ARBs are reasonable substitutes (ex: dry cough)
-It is NOT recommended to treat hypertension patients with both ACE inhibitor and ARB as it can increase adverse effects.