After my last post, I have had a number of requests for “what is an ACEI and ARB”. This post is meant to provide a slightly more detailed explanation of these medications.
- ACEI = Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitor
- ARB = Angiotensin 2 Receptor Blockers
- These meds have been used for hypertension for a number of decades, and have proven to be very effective in controlling blood pressure.
- As a result of the underlying “mechanism of action” (MOA) of these meds, the quantity of ACE2 receptors are increased, specifically in the lungs.
- Since there is a new theory that Covid-19 is “entering” the lung cells thru the ACE2 receptor, an increase in such receptors “may” increase your likelihood of getting the illness.
NOTE: As of the date of this post, this is ONLY a theory, and not yet proven. Since it is quite easy to switch to a different medication for BP control, we should all at least consider making this switch during this pandemic.
The following is a list of ACEI and ARB medications available in the US.
- ACE Inhibitors
- benazepril (Lotensin)
- captopril (Capoten- discontinued brand)
- enalapril (Vasotec, Epaned, [Lexxel- discontinued brand])
- fosinopril (Monopril- Discontinued brand)
- lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril, Qbrelis)
- moexipril (Univasc- Discontinued brand)
- perindopril (Aceon)
- quinapril (Accupril)
- ramipril (Altace)
- trandolapril (Mavik)
- ARBs
- azilsartan (Edarbi)
- candesartan (Atacand)
- eprosartan (Teveten)
- irbesartan (Avapro)
- telmisartan (Micardis)
- valsartan (Diovan)
- losartan (Cozaar)
- olmesartan (Benicar)
Stay safe !
- Sudhir S. Athni, MD
