Mechanism of action
The main action of all ACE inhibitors is to inhibit conversion of angiotensin 1(inactive) to angiotensin II(active). They inhibit the converting enzyme. Hence, angiotensin II production is inhibited. These drugs have several advantages. They do not have direct sympatholytic activity. Hence, cardiovascular reflexes are intact and postural hypotension is rare. They can be administered in patients of hypertension with diabetes mellitus or bronchial asthma. They can be administered safely. Ace inhibitors are efficacious drugs, are well tolerated and are useful antihypertensive drugs.