Are some blood pressure inhibitors dangerous in case of COVID-19 infection?

The use of antihypertensive drugs during COVID-19 infection may raise some concerns, especially with regard to certain classes of medications. Here is a look at how antihypertensive drugs may affect COVID-19 patients.

ACE inhibitors, such as lisinopril, enramapril, and ramipril, are commonly prescribed for hypertension and heart failure. Initially, there were concerns that ACE inhibitors could increase the risk of serious COVID-19 infections, because the virus uses the ACE2 receptor to enter cells and ACE2 receptors can be affected by these medications. However, recent studies have suggested that ACE inhibitors are safe.

Sartans (ARBs) such as losartan and valsartan block the effects of angiotensin II at the receptors and also help lower blood pressure. As with ACE inhibitors, there were concerns about ARBs in relation to COVID-19, but research has shown that ARBs are generally safe and do not increase the risk of serious COVID-19 infections.

Calcium channel blockers, such as amlodipine and diltiazem, work by relaxing blood vessels and lowering blood pressure. There is no specific evidence that calcium channel blockers interact negatively with COVID-19.

Diuretics, such as furosemide and hydrochlorothiazide, help remove excess fluid from the body and are often used for hypertension and heart failure. There is no evidence that diuretics are specifically dangerous for COVID-19.

Source: https://www.acc.org/latest-in-cardiology/articles/2020/07/06/08/15/covid-19-and-hypertension

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2023-12-11 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024