ACE Inhibitors and Calcium Channel Blockers (CCBs) Drugs

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Hello friends, in today's post we are going to provide information about ACE inhibitors and calcium channel blockers (CCBs). Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and calcium channel blockers (CCBs) are both important classes of medicines used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). When given in combination, these medicines are beneficial for patients who do not get adequate relief from a single drug. Therefore, doctors often recommend this combination therapy.


ACE inhibitors prevent the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, thereby lowering blood pressure. Angiotensin 2 chemical is a powerful vasoconstrictor , that narrows blood vessels. By blocking this process, ACE inhibitors help in preventing blood vessel narrowing and controlling high blood pressure.


On the other hand, calcium channel blockers (CCBs) work by blocking the entry of calcium into the smooth muscles of blood vessels and the heart. This results in vasodilation (widening of blood vessels) and reduces the workload on the heart.


Commonly used ACE inhibitors include lisinopril, benazepril, perindopril, and trandolapril. Among calcium channel blockers, amlodipine and verapamil are widely prescribed. Combination of these medicines also helps in reducing swelling (edema).


Common ACE Inhibitor + CCB Combination Drugs


Some of the most commonly used ACE inhibitor and CCB combinations are:


1. Perindopril + Amlodipine – Available under brand names like Coversyl G-AM, Amtas-PRP, Prestalia, etc. This combination is mainly used in hypertension and coronary artery disease (CAD).



2. Amlodipine + Benazepril – Available under the brand name Lotrel.



3. Trandolapril + Verapamil – Available under the brand name Tarka.




Why is its use decreasing?


In recent years, the use of ACE inhibitor + CCB combination drugs has declined. One major reason is the side effects of ACE inhibitors, such as dry cough in about 10–15% of patients. In rare cases, serious problems like angioedema have also been reported. Because of these concerns, doctors are prescribing these combinations less frequently.


Instead, combinations like Telmisartan + Amlodipine (Telma-AM, Stamlo-T, Twynsta) and Olmesartan + Amlodipine (WinBP-AM, Olmat-AM) are now preferred. As a result, the popularity of ACE inhibitor + CCB combinations has reduced.


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