Clinical Definition

ACE Inhibitors are a class of drugs that block the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, used in the treatment of hypertension and congestive heart failure, and in the prevention of microvascular complications of diabetes mellitus.

In Our Own Words

ACE inhibitors are medications that work by lowering the blood pressure and allowing your heart to do less work. ACE inhibitors are important in the approach to coronary heart disease, heart attacks and heart failure. Interestingly, they may also help slow or stop kidney disease from getting worse.

Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBS) are as effective as ACE inhibitors in treating high blood pressure, and a recurring cough does not appear frequently as a side effect. ACE inhibitors have been around longer than ARBs, so more is known about them.