Actions and Spectrum
The primary action of captopril is to lower blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels and reducing the workload of the heart. It does this by inhibiting the activity of ACE, an enzyme that converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II. Angiotensin II is a potent vasoconstrictor, meaning it narrows the blood vessels and increases blood pressure.
By blocking the production of angiotensin II, captopril can help to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke. captopril is also sometimes used to treat kidney problems caused by diabetes and to improve survival after a heart attack. It may be used in combination with other medications to achieve these effects.
In terms of its spectrum of activity, captopril is effective at lowering blood pressure in a wide range of patients, including those with hypertension, congestive heart failure, and kidney problems. It is generally well-tolerated, although some people may experience side effects such as dizziness, fatigue, and a dry cough.
