Final answer:
ACE inhibitors are a class of drugs commonly prescribed to treat hypertension, working by blocking the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II. They are part of a broader category of antihypertensive medications that may also include ARBs, and beta blockers, among others, and are often used in combination for effective blood pressure control.
Step-by-step explanation:
The class of drugs known as ACE inhibitors are commonly prescribed for hypertension. These medications are a cornerstone in the management of high blood pressure and are part of a group of medications known as antihypertensive medications, which also include thiazide-diuretics, calcium channel blockers, and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs).
ACE inhibitors, such as Benazepril (Lotensin), Captopril (Capoten), Enalapril (Vasotec), Fosinopril (Monopril), Lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril), Moexipril (Univasc), and Perindopril (Aceon), work by blocking the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a potent vasoconstrictor, thereby reducing blood pressure.
Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (or inhibitors), such as Candesartan (Atacand), Eprosartan (Teveten), Irbesartan (Avapro), as well as Losartan (Cozaar), Telmisartan (Micardis), Valsartan (Diovan) also serve a similar function in hypertension management by blocking the angiotensin II receptor directly.
Unlike ACE inhibitors, ARBs do not inhibit the production of angiotensin II but prevent it from exerting its effects on the blood vessels. High blood pressure management generally requires a multi-drug approach and the choice between an ACE inhibitor and an ARB may be influenced by the patient's health profile and the presence of other conditions.
Other classes of antihypertensive drugs, like beta blockers and alpha-blockers, work differently. ß-blockers, such as metoprolol and propranolol, work by blocking the sympathetic nervous system's receptors that contribute to increased heart rate and vasoconstriction. High blood pressure medications require careful selection and often a combination of drugs to effectively control hypertension and reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications.