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ACE inhibitors

A representation of ACE inhibitors

ACE inhibitors are a group of drugs used to treat cardiovascular diseases. They inhibit the enzyme angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), which is involved in the formation of angiotensin II. Angiotensin II is a hormone that increases blood pressure and impairs heart function. Inhibiting ACE reduces the formation of angiotensin II, thereby lowering blood pressure and improving cardiac performance.

When are ACE inhibitors used in dogs?

ACE inhibitors are used in dogs primarily to treat chronic heart failure. This is a condition in which the heart can no longer pump enough blood to the body. The consequences include shortness of breath, fatigue, fluid retention and organ damage. ACE inhibitors can improve the symptoms and quality of life of dogs with heart failure by reducing the workload on the heart and promoting blood flow to the organs.

ACE inhibitors may also be used in dogs with high blood pressure (hypertension) or kidney disease because they have a protective effect on blood vessels and kidneys.

What ACE inhibitors are available for dogs?

There are several ACE inhibitors that vary in their potency, breakdown in the body, and side effects. The most common ACE inhibitors used in dogs are:

  • Enalapril: An ACE inhibitor that is given orally and is effective for about 12 to 24 hours. It is usually given once or twice daily.
  • Benazepril: An ACE inhibitor that is given orally and works for about 24 hours. It is usually given once daily.
  • Ramipril: An ACE inhibitor that is given orally and works for about 24 hours. It is usually given once daily.

How are ACE inhibitors dosed in dogs?

The dosage of ACE inhibitors in dogs depends on several factors, such as the dog's weight, severity of disease, tolerance, and response to therapy. Dosage should always be individualized by the veterinarian and reviewed regularly. An overdose of ACE inhibitors can cause a severe drop in blood pressure, dizziness, weakness or collapse.

What side effects can ACE inhibitors have on dogs?

ACE inhibitors are generally well tolerated by dogs, but can cause side effects in rare cases. The most common side effects are:

  • Cough: A dry, irritating cough that results from the inhibition of ACE. It is usually harmless and disappears after some time or after dose adjustment.
  • Renal dysfunction: A deterioration in kidney function caused by decreased blood flow to the kidneys. It may manifest as increased thirst, increased urination, or blood in the urine. It requires regular monitoring of kidney values and, if necessary, dose adjustment or change of therapy.
  • Hyperkalemia: an elevated level of potassium in the blood caused by decreased excretion of potassium by the kidneys. It can cause muscle weakness, cardiac arrhythmias, or paralysis. It requires regular monitoring of potassium levels and, if necessary, dose adjustment or change of therapy.

What should be considered when administering ACE inhibitors in dogs?

When administering ACE inhibitors in dogs, several points should be considered to ensure efficacy and safety of therapy:

  • ACE inhibitors should always be administered in consultation with the veterinarian and should not be changed or discontinued on the patient's own authority.
  • ACE inhibitors should always be administered with adequate water to support the kidneys.
  • ACE inhibitors should always be administered with food to avoid gastric distress.
  • ACE inhibitors should always be administered at the same time of day to achieve a consistent effect.
  • Administration of ACE inhibitors should always be accompanied by regular monitoring of blood pressure, renal values, and potassium levels to adjust dosage or detect side effects.
  • The administration of ACE inhibitors should always be combined with a healthy diet, adequate exercise and a stress-free environment to promote the dog's heart health.

ACE inhibitors are an important therapeutic option for dogs with cardiovascular disease. They can improve the quality of life and life expectancy of dogs with heart failure by lowering blood pressure and improving cardiac output. They can also be used in dogs with hypertension or kidney disease because they have a protective effect on the blood vessels and kidneys. ACE inhibitors are generally well tolerated by dogs, but may cause side effects in rare cases. ACE inhibitors should always be administered in consultation with the veterinarian and monitored regularly.

The authors assume that a veterinarian should be consulted if an animal is ill and that medication should only be taken after consultation with a doctor or pharmacist. Only an individual examination can lead to a diagnosis and treatment decision.

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