angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor

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Word: Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitor (often shortened to ACE Inhibitor)

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition:

An angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor is a type of medicine that helps to lower blood pressure. It does this by blocking a substance in the body called angiotensin II, which can make blood vessels narrow. By preventing the formation of angiotensin II, these medications help relax the blood vessels, making it easier for blood to flow. They also help the body get rid of extra salt and water, which can be helpful for people with heart problems.

Usage Instructions:

• When to Use: ACE inhibitors are often prescribed for people with high blood pressure (hypertension) or heart failure. If a doctor prescribes one, it’s important to take it as directed.
• How to Take: These medications can be taken as a pill or liquid, usually once a day.

Example:

• "The doctor prescribed an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor to help lower my blood pressure."

Advanced Usage:

• In medical contexts, you might hear phrases like "ACE inhibition" or "ACE pathway" when discussing how these medications work in more detail.

Word Variants:

• ACE Inhibitor (shortened form)
• Angiotensin II receptor blocker (another type of medication that works similarly)

Different Meanings:

• While "angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor" has a specific meaning in medicine, the individual words can have broader meanings:
  • Angiotensin: A hormone that narrows blood vessels and raises blood pressure.
  • Converting: Changing from one form to another.
  • Enzyme: A protein that speeds up chemical reactions in the body.
  • Inhibitor: A substance that slows down or stops a process.

Synonyms:

• Antihypertensive (general term for drugs that lower blood pressure)
• Heart medication (broad term for drugs that treat heart conditions)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs related to "angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor," as it is a technical medical term. However, you might hear phrases like "bring down blood pressure" or "control hypertension" in discussions about its effects.

Summary:

Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors are important medications that help manage high blood pressure and heart conditions by relaxing blood vessels and promoting the excretion of excess salt and water.

Academic

Noun

1. an antihypertensive drug that blocks the formation of angiotensin II in the kidney, leading to relaxation of the arteries; promotes the excretion of salt and water by inhibiting the activity of the angiotensin converting enzyme; also used to treat congestive heart failure

Synonyms

• ace inhibitor