What is the purpose of ACE inhibitors in the early treatment of acute myocardial infarction?
ACE inhibitors are medications that are used in the early treatment of acute myocardial infarction in order to reduce mortality and morbidity. They work by blocking the enzyme angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) which is responsible for the production of angiotensin II, a hormone which causes vasoconstriction, resulting in increased blood pressure. ACE inhibitors also have anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative effects, which can help to reduce the damage caused by myocardial infarction. Studies have shown that ACE inhibitors reduce the risk of mortality and morbidity in patients with left ventricular dysfunction after myocardial infarction. Examples of ACE inhibitors include captopril, trandolapril, and valsartan. 