Diabetes and ACE Inhibitors

This class of medications has a neat trick up its sleeve. ACE inhibitors prevent a harmless protein called angiotensin I from turning into its evil twin, a hormone called angiotensin II, which causes blood vessels to constrict. ACE inhibitors lower hypertension by keeping vessels relaxed, allowing blood to flow easily. ACE inhibitors may offer a twofer for diabetes patients, since they appear to reduce insulin resistance. Some studies show that these drugs (along with angiotensin antagonists) prevent the onset of diabetes.

One common side effect of ACE inhibitors is a dry cough. Users may also develop a skin rash, loss of taste, and, in rare instances, kidney damage.

Next we'll discuss a medication similar to ACE inhibitors: ARBs (angiotensin receptor blockers).

For more information on diabetes, and its effect on blood pressure and heart ailments, try the following links:

  • Diabetes and Heart Disease explains the relationship between these two conditions.
  • Diabetes Symptoms covers the diverse signs of the disease, from increased thirst and hunger to sudden weight loss.
  • To learn more about diabetes in general, including diagnosis, causes, symptoms, and treatment, visit our main Diabetes page.
  • For more information on medications that treat hypertension, read Blood Pressure Medications.
This information is solely for informational purposes. IT IS NOT INTENDED TO PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. Neither the Editors of Consumer Guide (R), Publications International, Ltd., the author nor publisher take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action or application of medication which results from reading or following the information contained in this information. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care provider. Before undertaking any course of treatment, the reader must seek the advice of their physician or other health care provider.