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ACE Inhibitors
ACE (Angiotensin Converting Enzyme) inhibitors have been shown to help heart failure patients live longer and feel better. They relax blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump.
Most patients take ACE inhibitors without any problems. Occasionally, some patients will have side effects such as coughing or dizziness. These problems are common in people with heart failure and may not be caused by the medicine.
If you have problems, DO NOT STOP taking your tablets. Contact your Nurse or doctor. If you stop taking your tablets without speaking to your Nurse or doctor, your condition may deteriorate rapidly and you may have to go to hospital. If you are unable to tolerate an ACE Inhibitor you may be prescribed an alternative medication which works in a similar way. This is called an Angiotensin Receptor Blocker (ARB)
Your Nurse may ask you to go for a blood sample following an increase of your medication.
Your ACE inhibitor: ................................................................................................................... Target dose: ....................................................................................................................................
Perindopril Lisinopril
Ramipril Enalapril Captopril
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