Medication: Zestril/ lisinopril (ACE)
Written by: jchodirker | Posted: Apr 27 2009
How Zestril Reduces Blood Pressure
Zestril (lisinopril) is one of a class of blood pressure medication called Angiotestin Converting Enzyme Inhibitors or more commonly known as ACE Inhibitors.
Angiotensin II is a chemical that causes the muscles surrounding the blood vessels to contract (tighten). This in turn narrows the blood vessels. This narrowing increases the pressure within the blood vessels and can cause high blood pressure (hypertension).
Zestril slows (inhibits) the activity of the enzyme, which decreases the production of angiotensin II. As a result, the blood vessels enlarge or dilate, and the blood pressure is reduced.
Other ACE Inhibitors include Altace, Accupril, Lotensin and Mavik.
Although these medications are beneficial, many times they are not enough to control your blood pressure.
Click here for additional information including side effects.
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