What is the role of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors?

ACE inhibitors play a crucial role in the management of hypertension by helping to relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure. They achieve this by blocking the action of angiotensin-converting enzyme, which is responsible for converting angiotensin I to angiotensin II. Angiotensin II is a potent vasoconstrictor that narrows blood vessels and can significantly increase blood pressure. By inhibiting this conversion, ACE inhibitors lead to decreased levels of angiotensin II, resulting in vasodilation (the widening of blood vessels) and thus a reduction in blood pressure. This mechanism helps to improve blood flow and decrease the heart's workload, making ACE inhibitors an essential medication for treating conditions like hypertension and heart failure.