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  • Title: [Management of the treatment with converting enzyme inhibitors in chronic heart failure].
    Author: Zannad F.
    Journal: Rev Prat; 1992 Dec 15; 42(20):2563-7. PubMed ID: 1299941.
    Abstract:
    Treatment with angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors can begin at any time when a left ventricular dysfunction has been diagnosed. In the absence of rare contra-indications (renal artery stenosis, connective tissue disease, severe renal failure), all patients with asymptomatic or, a fortiori, symptomatic chronic heart failure can benefit from ACE inhibitors, whatever the origin of the heart failure. Among the ACE inhibitors now available, the benefits of captopril (3 daily doses) and of enalapril (2 daily doses) on all the targets of cardiac failure treatment are now well established. The effects of lisinopril on mortality are not yet known, but the haemodynamic and symptomatic benefits of this drug are also well established (with the advantage of once daily administration). Other ACE inhibitors with less numerous and less convincing trial reports can be used or rejected depending on the physician's faith in the effects of this pharmaceutical class. With all ACE inhibitors the initial dose must be very low, to be gradually increased over several days or even weeks until the highest dose tolerated is reached. ACE inhibitors can be associated with the classical treatment of cardiac failure. A previous diuretic treatment with sodium depletion may increase the risks of first dose effect and renal intolerance due to the introduction of the ACE inhibitors. Theoretically, the combination of ACE inhibitors and spironolactone is to be avoided for fear of hyperkalaemia and renal deterioration. Yet, provided some precautions are taken this combination may improve the benefits of ACE inhibition when the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system inhibition is not optimal. However, this has yet to be demonstrated by prospective clinical trials.
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